Hurricane Melissa Devastates Jamaica with 185 MPH Winds

Hurricane Melissa made landfall on October 28, 2025, unleashing catastrophic winds and heavy rains along Jamaica’s southwestern coast. The storm reached its peak intensity as a Category 5 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 185 mph when it struck near New Hope at approximately 1:00 p.m. ET. Although the winds have since decreased to 150 mph, the hurricane remains classified as a Category 4, posing an ongoing threat to the region.

The town of Black River bore the brunt of the storm, experiencing wind gusts exceeding 220 mph. Residents reported extensive damage, with one local describing the situation as “a wreck,” indicating that “almost every roof” had been blown off. The once vibrant community faced severe flooding, transforming the landscape into a chaotic mix of water, debris, and damaged infrastructure.

Widespread Damage Across Communities

The impact of Hurricane Melissa extended beyond Black River, affecting multiple areas in Jamaica. Footage from local media, including Jamaica Observer and Jamaica Gleaner, captured the devastation. In Savanna-la-Mar, a significant section of the Savanna La Mar Public General Hospital lost its roof due to the powerful winds. This structural damage underscores the storm’s intensity and the challenges facing emergency services in the aftermath.

The Jamaica Public Service (JPS) office in Black River was also heavily damaged, with reports confirming that the building lost its roof entirely. Such destruction raises concerns about the ability of local utilities to restore services in the wake of the storm.

According to the National Hurricane Center, Melissa is expected to continue moving across western Jamaica, further complicating recovery efforts. Flooding and high winds remain a significant risk as the storm progresses, leading to potential additional damage and hazards for residents.

Community Response and Recovery Efforts

In the face of such extreme weather conditions, local and national authorities are mobilizing to assess the damage and provide assistance. The Meteorological Service of Jamaica has been closely monitoring the storm and issuing updates to keep the public informed.

As recovery efforts begin, the resilience of the Jamaican people will be tested. The situation in Black River and other affected areas highlights the urgent need for aid and support as communities work to rebuild and recover from this devastating event.

As the situation develops, further updates will be provided regarding Hurricane Melissa and its impact on Jamaica. The nation faces a long road to recovery, and the focus will remain on ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens during this challenging time.