By Nadia Rivas
On October 28, 2025, Jamaica was hit by a category five hurricane with wind gusts up to 185mph, and it became one of the biggest hurricanes this region has ever experienced. The storm destroyed houses, businesses, uprooted trees, and completely wiped out Jamaican power. About 32 people lost their lives, and another 43 fatalities were reported in Hatti. The hurricane crushed Jamaica’s economy, said Prime Minister Andrew Holsness. The damage done to the property was 28% to 32% of the gross domestic product last year. Over 71% of the island does not have power, and 16 feet of the land is underwater. About 735,000 people evacuated to shelter before Melissa arrived, so many were saved from having to deal with the hurricane; however, most people did not have the funds to evacuate and had to endure the deadly hurricane. The country is working to rebuild, and many organizations have donated to help those directly impacted by the hurricane. Organizations like the American Friends of Jamaica, Direct Relief, International Medical Corps, World Central Kitchen, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies have given Jamaica resources to relieve some of the damage. Amazon has also been a huge donor, donating millions of dollars in emergency supplies. Despite the various resources being donated the country is still struggling and asking for help but they are staying hopeful, one local even saying, “All of us have been on the ground trying to see to it that we restore a level of order … we’re trying to maintain hope for the people and lead with purpose so that they feel that we’re in it with them and they haven’t been left alone.” The country is still currently struggling, but staying optimistic. If interested in donating to help relief:https://www.givedirectly.org/hurricanemelissa/