Climate Corner: Hurricane Melissa

Hurricane Melissa smashed into Jamaica on October 28 as a historic Category 5 storm, leaving behind destruction unlike anything ever seen before. “It sounded like the whole sky was breaking apart,” said Kingston student Mariah Thompson, who sheltered with her family in a school gym. With winds reaching 185 miles per hour, the hurricane tore roofs off buildings and snapped power lines across the island. Emergency officials reported that more than three-quarters of Jamaica lost electricity within hours of landfall. “We were prepared, but nothing prepares you for a storm like this,” said local volunteer coordinator Devon Wright.

Record-breaking storm surge pushed seawater far inland, flooding neighborhoods and leaving many roads impassable. After crossing Jamaica, Melissa weakened slightly but still hit Cuba hard, bringing heavy rain and dangerous flash flooding. Rescue crews worked through the night to reach families trapped in damaged homes. Scientists say that warmer ocean temperatures likely fueled the storm’s rapid intensification. Jamaica’s prime minister described the scene as “one of the darkest days in our nation’s history.” Many students across the island will not return to school for weeks due to structural damage.

International aid groups are sending food, water, and medical supplies to help communities begin recovering. “What matters now is coming together and rebuilding stronger,” said a Red Cross spokesperson. For many teens who lived through Melissa, the storm will be remembered not just for its power, but for the way neighbors supported each other when the winds calmed. You can support relief efforts in Jamaica by donating to the Government of Jamaica’s official Hurricane Melissa Relief Fund through SupportJamaica.gov.jm.