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Hurricane Melissa Retired After Record-Breaking Destruction

3/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) retired the name Melissa after it tied for the strongest Atlantic hurricane in 2025.
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica as Category 5 Oct. 28, 2025, causing at least $8.8 billion in damage and 95 deaths.
Maximum sustained winds reached 185 mph, matching records set by Hurricane Dorian (2019) and the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane.
Molly will replace Melissa in the naming rotation, first appearing in 2031.

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Story summary

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) retired the name Melissa after it tied for the strongest Atlantic hurricane in 2025.
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica as Category 5 Oct. 28, 2025, causing at least $8.8 billion in damage and 95 deaths.
Maximum sustained winds reached 185 mph, matching records set by Hurricane Dorian (2019) and the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane.
Molly will replace Melissa in the naming rotation, first appearing in 2031.