Hurricane Melissa Unleashes Destruction Across Caribbean

Hurricane Melissa swept through the northern Caribbean, resulting in a confirmed death toll reaching 44, officials reported on Thursday. The powerful storm made landfall in southwestern Jamaica as a Category 5 hurricane, marking the strongest storm to hit the nation since 1988. According to forecasts, Melissa tied for the second-strongest Atlantic hurricane on record by windspeed.

In Jamaica, at least 19 deaths were confirmed while search and rescue efforts continued amid extensive destruction. The hurricane left hundreds of thousands without power and caused significant structural damage. Jamaica's military mobilized reserve personnel to assist in relief efforts, as blocked roads and destroyed infrastructure hampered recovery operations.

Authorities in Haiti and Cuba responded to severe rain and damage, with further evacuations and repair efforts underway. Scientist reports attribute such hurricane intensification to global warming, as Caribbean leaders call for reparations from major polluting nations. The U.S. has pledged humanitarian aid while awaiting Cuba's response.