Hurricane Melissa Devastates Jamaica: Over 500,000 Without Power

UPDATE: Hurricane Melissa has left a trail of destruction across Jamaica, with satellite images revealing catastrophic damage following the storm’s landfall on October 29, 2025. The powerful hurricane, which struck with sustained wind speeds of 185 miles per hour, has plunged over 500,000 people into darkness as power outages sweep the island.

The storm, recognized as the strongest hurricane of the year, impacted not only Jamaica but also wreaked havoc in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti. Reports confirm at least 30 fatalities across the region, with Jamaica bearing the brunt of the devastation. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has declared the entire country a disaster area, underscoring the enormity of the crisis.

“The devastation is enormous,” said Transportation Minister Daryl Vaz, as damage estimates soar between $48 billion and $52 billion, according to preliminary assessments by Accuweather. The destruction has obliterated homes and businesses, flooding streets and leaving communities grappling with the aftermath.

Satellite images from Vantor, a US spatial intelligence firm, illustrate the stark contrast in Jamaica before and after the hurricane. The town of Black River, home to approximately 4,000 residents, has been described as “Ground Zero” by the Prime Minister. The storm has devastated significant historical structures, including a 300-year-old church, leaving emotional scars on the community.

In White House, another southwestern town also populated by around 4,000 people, the beachfront structures have been nearly erased, showcasing the hurricane’s ruthless impact. Meanwhile, the once-vibrant waters of Montego Bay have transformed from crystalline blue to a murky brown, reflecting the environmental toll of the storm.

Local areas like New Hope faced unprecedented flooding, with storm surges reaching heights of 13 feet. The community is now working to recover from the overwhelming damage, but the road ahead appears long and arduous.

Authorities are mobilizing resources to assist affected residents, but the scale of destruction poses significant challenges. As recovery efforts begin, the impact of Hurricane Melissa is expected to resonate for years to come.

As this situation develops, stay tuned for further updates on recovery efforts and community support. The urgent need for assistance and solidarity in the face of such adversity cannot be overstated.

This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of communities in the face of climate change and extreme weather events. Share this article to raise awareness and support for those affected by Hurricane Melissa.