Hurricane Melissa Causes Widespread Devastation in the Caribbean

Hurricane Melissa has wreaked havoc across the Caribbean, resulting in at least 39 confirmed fatalities as it made its second landfall in eastern Cuba on October 29, 2025. The Category 5 hurricane, which struck Jamaica earlier, has left a trail of destruction and has prompted officials to assess the catastrophic damage caused by powerful winds and torrential rains.

In Haiti, the storm has been particularly deadly. Reports indicate that **29 people** have died, with **25 fatalities** occurring in the town of Petit-Grove alone. Mayor **Jean Bertrand Subrème** informed the Associated Press that flooding from a nearby river inundated the community, leading to numerous house collapses. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with several individuals still trapped under debris.

As Hurricane Melissa advanced across Cuba, the situation in Haiti deteriorated further. The **Weather Fatalities** organization has documented a total of **29 deaths** in Haiti, along with additional fatalities in neighboring countries. In the Dominican Republic, four deaths have been reported, with one in the capital city of Santo Domingo. The remaining three fatalities are noted as occurring in unspecified locations.

Tragically, another two deaths linked to Hurricane Melissa occurred in Panama, particularly in the Mironó District. In Jamaica, the storm’s impact has also been felt. **Four fatalities** have been confirmed, with losses reported in St. Elizabeth, St. Catherine, and Hanover. One death remains unaccounted for, described only as occurring in “Western Jamaica.”

Reports of further fatalities have emerged from local residents, although these remain unverified. During a press conference, **Desmond McKenzie**, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, stated, “We are not in a position to speak about any deaths because we have not had any reports of any deaths so far, so we cannot presume that there are deaths. I am hoping there are no deaths to report on.”

The circumstances surrounding the fatalities reveal a grim picture. According to **Weather Fatalities**, **27 deaths** resulted from drowning, while three were attributed to landslides. Additionally, two individuals were crushed, and three other deaths were classified as indirect, involving tree-cutting accidents and electrocution.

As recovery efforts begin, officials face the challenge of assessing the full extent of the damage. The storm’s rapid progression and severe weather conditions have complicated rescue and relief operations. Local authorities are working tirelessly to provide assistance and ensure the safety of residents affected by this devastating hurricane.

The current toll from Hurricane Melissa is a stark reminder of the destructive power of nature. As the Caribbean grapples with the aftermath, communities will need to come together to rebuild and recover from this disaster.