Hurricane Melissa is causing widespread destruction across the northern Caribbean, leading to chaos and devastation. While classified as a Category 1 hurricane as it moves through the Bahamas, Melissa earlier devastated Cuba and Jamaica with record-breaking force.
In Haiti, floods led to the deaths of at least 25 people. This storm, despite not directly hitting, brought relentless rain contributing to these fatalities. Over in Jamaica, the economic toll could reach $22 billion, with a decade-long rebuilding effort expected.
Cuba continues to contend with extensive damage and mass evacuations after Melissa’s impact. Meanwhile, Caribbean leaders are urging international support, citing intensified hurricanes linked to climate change. Recovery efforts and calls for reparations are ongoing as the region copes with the aftermath.
(With inputs from agencies.)