Kingston (Star Struck Times) – A historic storm struck. The record-setting Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica, unleashing devastating winds and flooding on Tue 28 Oct 2025. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), sustained winds reached 185 mph (295 kph) when the storm hit the coast — the strongest hurricane landfall ever recorded for Jamaica.
The disaster declaration comes as the island reels from destruction: massive storm surges up to 13 feet, torrential rainfall, widespread power outages, and major infrastructure damage. Officials say that more than 77 percent of electricity customers were without power shortly after landfall.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness addressed the nation, warning of “a new normal” of mega-storms, saying “There is no infrastructure in this region that can withstand a Category 5.”
When the storm intensified from a tropical system to a full-blown Category 5 hurricane in just a matter of hours, emergency services activated more than 800 shelters across Jamaica. Many residents in low-lying coastal zones had already received mandatory evacuation orders, but officials say turnout remained low.
“The entire Jamaica has felt the brunt of Melissa,” said Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie, as he described entire parishes being submerged or rendered inaccessible.
In the southern parish of St. Elizabeth, roads were completely blocked by debris; in Kingston’s suburbs, falling trees and power-line collapses left residents trapped. With the storm crawling across the island at just a few miles per hour, prolonged exposure magnified the damage.
Despite the severity, the full death toll is still being confirmed. As of press time, at least 3 deaths have been reported in Jamaica, with many more feared in isolated areas where communications remain down. The capital, Kingston, remained under threat as cleanup efforts began even while the storm’s outer bands churned onward toward Cuba.
The tourism-reliant economy of Jamaica is also under immediate threat. Hotels and resorts along the coast were battered as the storm surge tore through beachside infrastructure. Experts warn the recovery may stretch into months, with massive costs and long-term consequences.
FAQs
Q: When did Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica?
A: Landfall occurred on Oct 28 2025.
Q: How strong was the storm?
A: Maximum sustained winds of approx. 185 mph, ranking among Atlantic’s strongest landfalls.
Q: Which areas are hardest hit?
A: The southwestern coast near New Hope/Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth parish, and coastal zones including Kingston’s suburbs.
Q: What is the government doing?
A: More than 800 shelters activated, international aid being requested, and a full damage assessment underway.
Q: How can I help?
A: Donate to credible relief organisations supporting Jamaican disaster response, and stay tuned to official channels for guidance.
