Hurricane Melissa live updates: hundreds of thousands evacuated as Cuba faces 120mph winds; disaster area declared in Jamaica

Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in eastern Cuba, causing significant concern for residents and emergency services. Meanwhile, Israel has ordered strikes on Gaza, escalating tensions weeks after a ceasefire was established. Additionally, air traffic controllers are facing increasing pressure as they continue to work without pay during the ongoing government shutdown. These events highlight the challenges faced by communities and individuals in crisis situations, emphasizing the need for support and resolution.

In a recent discussion, NPR's Michel Martin spoke with Dana Sacchetti, the head of the World Food Programme in Jamaica, about the ongoing efforts of aid organizations to support residents recovering from Hurricane Melissa. This conversation highlights the crucial role these organizations play in providing food and resources to those affected, showcasing the resilience of communities in the face of natural disasters. It's a reminder of the importance of humanitarian aid in rebuilding lives and restoring hope.

Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in eastern Cuba as a Category 3 storm, following its destructive path through Jamaica. This event is significant as it poses serious risks to the affected areas, including potential flooding and damage to infrastructure, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather events in the region.

Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in Cuba, specifically in the province of Santiago de Cuba, after causing significant weather disturbances in Jamaica. This event is crucial as it highlights the ongoing challenges posed by hurricanes in the Caribbean, affecting local communities and prompting emergency responses.

Jamaica is facing a dire situation as Hurricane Melissa, dubbed 'Monstrous Melissa', wreaks havoc across the island. The Prime Minister has warned of potential loss of life due to the extensive damage to homes and hospitals, as well as severe flooding in various parishes. This disaster not only poses immediate threats to the safety of residents but also highlights the ongoing challenges of climate change and disaster preparedness in the region.

Hurricane Melissa has made history as the strongest storm to hit Jamaica since records began in 1851, bringing devastating winds of 185 mph and torrential rains. The impact has been catastrophic, knocking out power lines and cutting off internet access, leaving many residents in dire situations. This storm is significant not only for its intensity but also for the long-term effects it may have on the island's infrastructure and recovery efforts.

Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in Jamaica, causing severe flooding and trapping families in their homes, particularly in the parish of St Elizabeth. This storm, described as the 'storm of the century,' is now heading towards Cuba, raising concerns about further devastation. The impact of such extreme weather events highlights the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and response strategies in the Caribbean, as communities grapple with the increasing frequency and intensity of hurricanes.

Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified to a Category 4 storm, causing significant property damage in Jamaica and prompting Cuban authorities to evacuate thousands in preparation for its landfall. This situation is critical as the storm poses a serious threat to lives and infrastructure in the region, highlighting the increasing severity of hurricanes in recent years.

The Women's Cricket World Cup semi-final between England and South Africa is underway, with live updates starting at 9:30 AM GMT. This match is significant as it showcases the growing popularity and competitiveness of women's cricket, drawing attention to the sport and its athletes. As teams battle for a place in the final, fans are eager to see how this tournament continues to elevate women's sports on a global stage.

The first men's T20 international between Australia and India at Manuka Oval in Canberra has been an exciting match, highlighted by Abhishek Sharma's aggressive batting. However, his innings came to an end after a clever delivery from Nathan Ellis led to a simple catch. This match is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit between two cricketing giants and sets the stage for future encounters.

Chancellor Reeves is taking a bold stance against pessimistic economic forecasts, emphasizing that investment is key to enhancing the UK's productivity. This approach is significant as it aims to inspire confidence in the economy and encourage growth, which could lead to improved job opportunities and overall prosperity for the nation.

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.

Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, has acknowledged that the Home Office is struggling to effectively address the numerous challenges it faces. This admission highlights ongoing issues within the department, which is crucial for managing immigration and public safety in the UK. The government's recent release of witness statements from the DNSA underscores the urgency of these problems, as they reveal a timeline of mismanagement and the need for reform. This situation matters because it affects the lives of many individuals relying on the Home Office's services and raises questions about the government's ability to handle critical issues.

In a move that could reshape trade relations, Trump announced plans to cut the fentanyl tariff on Chinese goods, expressing optimism for a 'great deal' with Xi. This news comes as Asian stock markets rally on the anticipation of a trade deal and a potential US interest rate cut. Additionally, GSK's CEO Emma Walmsley is stepping down after eight years, but not before the company raised its 2025 sales and profit forecasts, showcasing strong growth in key areas. This combination of trade optimism and corporate success highlights a potentially positive shift in the economic landscape.