Hurricane Melissa, a rare and catastrophic Category 5 storm, is currently battering Jamaica, marking the island's most severe hurricane threat in recorded history. With sustained winds of 175 mph and a slow westward movement, the storm is expected to bring unprecedented damage to the Caribbean nation.
As of October 27, 2025, Hurricane Melissa intensified into a Category 5 storm, making it the strongest hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season and the most powerful to threaten Jamaica since records began in the 1850s. The U.S. National Hurricane Center has warned of "catastrophic" conditions, including life-threatening flash flooding, destructive winds, and extensive storm surge.
Jamaican authorities have issued mandatory evacuations for vulnerable areas, including Kingston and Port Royal. Over 28,000 people have been affected by these orders, and more than 800 shelters have been activated. However, some residents remain in place, citing concerns about looting and past negative experiences in shelters. -
Embassy Of Jamaica is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Let's Connect Virtual Townhall
Time: Oct 27, 2025 06:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
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The storm's slow movement is exacerbating the threat, with projections of up to 40 inches of rain in some areas, leading to catastrophic flash flooding and landslides. The National Hurricane Center has warned that Melissa's slow movement and strength could result in record-breaking devastation.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness has announced a $33 million emergency response fund and acknowledged that no regional infrastructure could withstand a Category 5 storm. The storm is expected to cause severe infrastructural damage, power outages, and uninhabitable conditions in many areas.
Locally in Florida (South Florida) help and support is being coordinated by Caribbean Strong -
Hurricane Melissa has already caused fatalities in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, with reports of destroyed homes, water systems, and infrastructure. Cuba and the Bahamas are also bracing for impact, with Cuba evacuating over 500,000 people and canceling schools and transportation.
As Hurricane Melissa continues its path across the Caribbean, international aid organizations are coordinating relief efforts. The International Organization for Migration is preparing to deliver supplies to affected areas, with shipments expected by Thursday.
This unprecedented storm underscores the urgent need for global attention and support for the Caribbean region, which is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Note that the CAP Village - located in Fashion Square Mall will serve as a drop-off point for anyone wanting to provide support. The Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, the Caribbean American Passport News Magazine, CAP Multicultural Initiative and our partnering organizations will help coordinate support efforts with local Jamaican organizations, families and friends of the Caribbean. - please call 407-427-1800 for additional information or 407-810-6435
