In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica as a Category 5 storm, the island is grappling with severe challenges, including power outages and disrupted communications. As authorities work diligently to assess the damage, satellite imagery is beginning to unveil the extent of the destruction across affected communities.
One of the most alarming visuals comes from the southwestern coastal port of Black River. Satellite images reveal a stark contrast between a photograph taken on February 9 and one captured on October 29, post-hurricane. Notably, the iconic white roof of a market building has been replaced by a gaping hole, signaling significant structural damage. Further north, a café has been completely obliterated, and the red roof of a nearby warehouse has vanished. Although the outline of the fire station next to the market is still discernible, its roof appears to have been entirely torn off. Jamaica's Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, has referred to Black River as "ground zero," sharing footage that highlights the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa on this community.
Moving west along the coast, the fishing village of White House has also been heavily affected. Home to several thousand residents, this area experienced the full force of Hurricane Melissa, with winds reaching speeds of up to 185 mph. Satellite images indicate that nearly every structure in White House has suffered damage or complete destruction. Buildings lining the beach, including popular restaurants such as Marva's and Pelican Lookout, have been reduced to rubble. Furthermore, a large circular structure has lost its top, and a cluster of shops along the main road has been severely impacted. Fishing boats that were visible in the bay just weeks prior have now vanished, illustrating the storm's ferocity.
The popular tourist destination of Montego Bay has also been transformed dramatically. Once known for its beautiful beaches, this region now resembles a brown swamp due to extensive flooding. The shoreline has been irrevocably altered, and authorities report that facilities within the port and industrial park have been inundated. The container terminal, an oil storage facility, and a nearby water treatment plant have all suffered significant damage. Montego Bay's mayor, Richard Vernon, has characterized the area as devastated, while emphasizing that local residents are doing their utmost to support one another during this crisis.
As Jamaica continues to assess the fallout from Hurricane Melissa, the humanitarian response will be critical in helping affected communities recover from this unprecedented disaster.
