Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica on 28 October 2025, marking the most powerful storm in the nation’s recorded history. By 29 October, Melissa had weakened slightly to a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of approximately 130 mph. The storm is currently approaching eastern Cuba, prompting the evacuation of over 500,000 people, and is expected to impact the southeastern and central Bahamas later today before passing near Bermuda by 31 October.

Initial damage assessments from Jamaica reveal widespread infrastructure disruption. All parishes have reported blocked roads, fallen trees, downed utility poles, and severe flooding. Emergency shelters have been activated across the island to support displaced residents.

The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) is leading the regional response, working closely with National Emergency Management Coordinators.

In anticipation of further needs, Global ETC, Caribbean ETC, and WFP Caribbean have identified one technical personnel for rapid deployment to Jamaica to assist with assessments and support operations. These personnel remain on standby pending travel arrangements. Global ETC and its partners are prepared to mobilize additional resources as required.