Hurricane Melissa Recovery Efforts Strain Haiti and Jamaica as Thousands Remain Displaced

Hurricane Melissa left deep scars across Haiti and Jamaica in late October. The storm hit both countries with heavy rain and strong winds. It destroyed homes, crops, and roads. It killed dozens of people and forced thousands to flee.

The recovery has been slow. Many people still lack food and shelter. Aid groups say the crisis is growing. According to AP News and Reuters, officials warn that the needs are far greater than current resources.

Hurricane Melissa Impact Continues to Worsen Conditions

In Haiti, the town of Petit-Goâve suffered some of the worst damage. Residents lost homes and loved ones when floods swept through the area. Local groups and rescue crews continue to clear mud and debris. The air is filled with the sound of heavy machines as they work to open blocked roads.

At least 43 people died in Haiti because of Hurricane Melissa, according to AP News. Many victims lived in small farming communities that depended on crops like plantain, corn, and beans. The storm destroyed fields and washed away livestock. This loss has made food shortages even worse in a country where more than 5 million people already struggle to eat every day.

The World Food Program said the storm deepened Haiti’s hunger crisis. The group reported that families lost their only income and now rely on small donations to survive. Many people wait in long lines for locally made food items. Some lost entire families in the storm and have no place to return to.

Jamaica also faces major challenges. Officials said the storm caused up to $8.8 billion in damage. At least 45 people died, and dozens more are still missing. Government shelters house more than 1,000 people. Many schools remain closed. Emergency teams continue to treat cases of leptospirosis and other infections linked to flooding.

Rebuilding Plans and Long-Term Recovery Needs

Jamaica received a major loan to restore electricity across the country. Leaders said power should return to all areas by the end of January. Several global financial groups pledged long-term support for rebuilding. The package of $6.7 billion will help repair homes, roads, and hospitals.

Cuba also still feels the effects of the storm. The country avoided fatalities, but heavy rains forced more than 700,000 people to evacuate. Many still cannot return home. Aid groups estimate that more than 50,000 people remain displaced.

The World Food Program said Hurricane Melissa affected more than 6 million people across the Caribbean. The group has aided more than 700,000 people so far. But its funding appeal is only half covered. Without more support, large areas may struggle to recover for years.

The impact of Hurricane Melissa remains severe. Families across Haiti, Jamaica, and Cuba face long rebuilding periods. The storm’s damage shows how fragile the region remains in the face of extreme weather.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What damage did Hurricane Melissa cause?

Hurricane Melissa destroyed homes, farms, and roads. It caused deadly floods and left thousands without shelter. Many towns still struggle to rebuild.

Q2: How many people died in the storm?

At least 43 people died in Haiti and at least 45 in Jamaica. More people remain missing, and some deaths are still under review.

Q3: How many people need aid now?

Aid groups say 1.3 million people in the region need food or other support. More than 6 million people were affected in total.

Q4: What help is Jamaica receiving?

Jamaica received loans to restore power and rebuild. More global funds were pledged for long-term recovery work.

Q5: Is Cuba still affected?

Yes. Many people remain in shelters. Flooding damaged homes and forced mass evacuations.