Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm with gusts of 185 mph, has struck Jamaica’s southern coast, prompting authorities to declare a disaster area.
Entire cities are underwater, and severe flooding has damaged key infrastructure. Officials described the storm as one of the strongest in Atlantic history.
Before landfall, at least three people died, and officials expect the death toll to rise. More than 1.5 million people may be affected as homes, schools, and hospitals suffer heavy damage.
About 35% of households have lost power, and internet and mobile networks remain severely disrupted.
Authorities warn of a 13-foot storm surge, landslides, and ongoing floods. Emergency teams are working across affected areas as red hurricane warnings remain in force.
Hospitals have activated emergency response measures to handle the growing number of casualties.
Although Hurricane Melissa has weakened to a Category 4 storm, its 150 mph winds continue to batter the island as it moves northward.
