Jamaica declares disaster as ‘Monstrous Melissa’ ravages island

Hurricane Melissa has wreaked havoc in Jamaica, marking the strongest storm to hit the island since records began. With over 530,000 residents left without power and the entire island declared a disaster area by Prime Minister Andrew Holness, the impact is severe. As the storm moves towards Cuba, where hundreds of thousands have been evacuated, the situation remains critical. This event highlights the increasing intensity of storms due to climate change and the urgent need for disaster preparedness.

Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in Jamaica as a devastating category 5 storm, causing severe flooding and landslides, particularly in the Parish of St Elizabeth, which is reported to be 'under water.' This storm, described as the 'storm of the century,' is now heading towards Cuba, raising concerns about further destruction. The impact of such extreme weather events highlights the increasing severity of hurricanes, likely linked to climate change, and underscores the urgent need for preparedness and response strategies in vulnerable regions.

Hurricane Melissa has made its second landfall in Cuba as a powerful Category 3 storm, following significant destruction in Jamaica. This situation is critical as it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by both nations in the wake of natural disasters. Ed Augustin from NBC News provides insights into the aftermath in Cuba, while Sarah Hsia from The American Friends of Jamaica shares updates on the conditions in Jamaica. The impact of such storms is profound, affecting communities and economies, making it essential to monitor recovery efforts closely.

Jamaica's government is urgently seeking overseas aid following the devastation caused by the most powerful hurricane to ever strike the island. This appeal highlights the significant challenges the country faces in recovery and rebuilding efforts, making international support crucial for the affected communities.

Hurricane Melissa has wreaked havoc in Jamaica, making landfall as a Category 5 storm and leaving officials scrambling to assess the extensive damage. This disaster is particularly concerning as it coincides with a government shutdown that is affecting air traffic controllers, potentially complicating recovery efforts and air travel in the region. The situation highlights the urgent need for support and resources to help the affected communities rebuild and recover.

Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in Cuba after causing significant damage in Jamaica, where it left hundreds of thousands without power. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel reported that over 700,000 people have been evacuated to safety as the storm approached, prompting a state of alert in six eastern provinces. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather events in the Caribbean, emphasizing the need for preparedness and response strategies.

Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in Cuba's Santiago de Cuba province, following its powerful impact on Jamaica. This storm is notable for being one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes recorded, raising concerns about the potential damage and disruption it may cause in the region. The situation is critical as communities brace for the aftermath, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather events.

Hurricane Melissa has caused significant destruction as it hits Cuba with winds reaching 120 mph, leading to life-threatening flooding and the evacuation of hundreds of thousands. Jamaica has also declared a disaster area due to the storm's devastating impact. This situation is critical as it highlights the increasing severity of natural disasters and the urgent need for preparedness and response strategies in vulnerable regions.

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Hurricane Melissa has caused widespread devastation as it hits Cuba with 120mph winds, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of thousands. The storm has also declared a disaster area in Jamaica, where life-threatening flooding is reported. This situation is critical as it not only threatens lives but also disrupts communities and economies in the affected regions, highlighting the increasing severity of natural disasters.