Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 04:16am on 30 Oct 2025,Thursday Weather & Environment
Hurricane Melissa's death toll reached at least 32 across the Caribbean, with devastating impacts in Haiti, Jamaica, Cuba, and the Bahamas. Haiti reported 28 deaths, including 25 in Petit-Goâve after swollen rivers burst banks. Jamaica confirmed four deaths in St. Elizabeth Parish, with three additional fatalities during storm preparations. The Dominican Republic reported one death. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness described damage as "unprecedented," noting 80-90% of roofs between Treasure Beach and Black River were destroyed. Essential infrastructure including hospitals, courthouses, and historic buildings were wiped out. Cuba faced "significant damage" as Category 3 landfall cut off 140,000 people. The storm weakened to Category 1 but continues producing dangerous flooding and winds across the Bahamas.
