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Hurricane Melissa Leaves 46 Dead, Devastates Caribbean Nations

10/31/2025

Center

Hurricane Melissa Devastation

Hurricane Melissa devastated Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti, with at least 46 deaths.
In Jamaica, Prime Minister Andrew Holness reported extensive destruction, especially in Black River where 90% of roofs were lost, with 25,000+ people in shelters and 72% without power.
In Haiti, flooding caused at least 26 deaths and many missing.
Cuba faced extensive damage but reported no fatalities.
Relief efforts are underway, but communication and access remain challenging.

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Mottley Advocates Climate Action

Hurricane Melissa intensifies concerns about climate change's impact on vulnerable Caribbean nations.
The United Nations says developing countries need over $1 trillion annually for climate adaptation.
Michai Robertson (Antigua and Barbuda) highlights the lack of leadership from wealthy nations addressing climate issues.
Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley advocates financial reforms to aid recovery.
The COP climate summit in Brazil will address these urgent financial needs.

History

Historical Context

Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico on September 20, 2017, as a high-end Category 4 storm, causing nearly 3,000 deaths and over $91 billion in damages. The hurricane exposed Puerto Rico's vulnerable infrastructure, which had been weakened by a decade of financial decline and aging power systems. This disaster underscored the urgent need for climate adaptation and international aid, as highlighted by leaders like Barbados' Mia Mottley.

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Hurricane Melissa Devastation

Hurricane Melissa devastated Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti, with at least 46 deaths.
In Jamaica, Prime Minister Andrew Holness reported extensive destruction, especially in Black River where 90% of roofs were lost, with 25,000+ people in shelters and 72% without power.
In Haiti, flooding caused at least 26 deaths and many missing.
Cuba faced extensive damage but reported no fatalities.
Relief efforts are underway, but communication and access remain challenging.

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