Jamaicans reveal devastation as hurricane causes floods, power cuts and splits city in two
Jamaica is reeling from the aftermath of the catastrophic Hurricane Melissa, which tore through the island earlier this week, leaving a trail of destruction described by residents as “the worst in living memory.” The Category Five storm battered the island with sustained winds of over 250 km/h, torrential rains, and massive storm surges that inundated coastal areas and crippled infrastructure. The capital, Kingston, has been left partially cut off after severe flooding and landslides split the city in two, isolating several districts from the main road network. Entire neighborhoods were submerged under several feet of water, forcing thousands of residents to seek refuge in emergency shelters. According to Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, more than 80% of the island’s households lost power during the height of the storm, while communication networks collapsed under widespread outages. Residents shared harrowing accounts of how the hurricane transformed once-bustling streets into rivers overnight. “It was like the sea came for us,” said one survivor from Port Royal, recalling how waves crashed through coastal defenses. In the hills overlooking the city, homes were swept away by mudslides, while downed trees and power lines made rescue operations perilous. Authorities have confirmed at least 27 deaths, though officials warn that the number may rise as search-and-rescue teams reach the most remote areas. Hospitals have been overwhelmed with the injured, and emergency crews continue to battle blocked roads and damaged bridges. Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared a national state of emergency, urging international partners for immediate assistance. “Our nation is facing one of the darkest moments in its modern history,” he said in a televised address. “But Jamaica will rebuild, stronger and united.” Airports remain closed, and the main seaport in Kingston sustained heavy damage, disrupting food and fuel supplies. Power company officials estimate it could take several weeks before electricity is fully restored across the island. Water systems have also been compromised, raising fears of disease outbreaks as residents rely on contaminated floodwaters. International aid has begun to arrive, with relief teams from neighboring Caribbean nations and the United States assisting local authorities in distributing food, clean water, and medical supplies. Despite the destruction, scenes of resilience have emerged across the island. Volunteers and community groups are working tirelessly to clear debris, support displaced families, and restore a sense of hope amid the ruins. As Jamaica begins its long recovery, experts warn that the record-breaking intensity of Hurricane Melissa highlights the growing threat of climate change to the Caribbean. For many Jamaicans, however, survival and rebuilding their shattered communities remain the immediate priority.