On October 28, 2025, Hurricane Melissa, a catastrophic Category 5 hurricane, made direct landfall in Jamaica, marking the most powerful storms ever to strike the island. Packing sustained winds of 185 mph (295 km/h), Hurricane Melissa caused catastrophic damage across much of the western and central parishes.
The storm made landfall near the border of Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth, two parishes that were also severely hit by Hurricane Beryl in 2024. Communities in St. Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St. James, Manchester, Hanover, Trelawny, and St. Ann have been left in ruins. Hospitals, homes, and schools have suffered major damage. Roads have been washed out, leaving some areas completely isolated and difficult for first responders to reach.
As of now, at least 19 lives have been confirmed lost, with many others unaccounted for. Over 500,000 Jamaicans remain without electricity, and much of the island’s western region is without running water.
Still, through grief and loss, the spirit of the Jamaican people shines bright, communities banding together, neighbours helping neighbours, and hope rising from heartbreak.
Relief Efforts Underway
Kingston’s international airport has reopened, allowing humanitarian aid to begin flowing in. Recovery will take time, but several organizations have already stepped in to provide urgent help:
- Samaritan’s Purse has deployed disaster response specialists and sent 38,000 pounds of life-saving supplies, including tarps, solar lights, medical kits, and water filtration systems.
- The UN World Food Programme (WFP), in partnership with the Government of France, has delivered emergency relief supplies to the hardest-hit communities.
- Chef José Andrés‘ World Central Kitchen is working alongside local restaurant partners to prepare and serve hot meals to families who’ve lost everything. In addition to this Chef Jose Andres is pledging 2 million dollars to help support small food producers in Jamaica who’ve suffered tremendous losses after Hurricane Melissa.
- Search and rescue teams from the United States have arrived to help local authorities reach trapped residents and distribute critical supplies.
- Venezuela has sent 46 tons of humanitarian aid, including food, medicine, and emergency supplies to Cuba and Jamaica following the recent hurricane.
- El Salvador has pledged to send 3 humanitarian aid planes to Jamaica with more than 300 rescuers taking part in this mission, and over 50 tons of supplies to support those affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
For those who wish to support Jamaica’s rebuilding efforts, the official donation portal is https://supportjamaica.gov.jm/
Cuba and Haiti Also Devastated
Hurricane Melissa did not stop with Jamaica. The storm also brought widespread destruction to Cuba and Haiti.
In Haiti, at least 25 people have died and 18 remain missing, according to the Civil Protection Agency. In Cuba, more than 735,000 people are sheltering after homes collapsed, roofs were blown off, and mountain roads were blocked.
Along with humanitarian assistance Jamaica, Cuba and Haiti need our prayers. As followers of Christ, we are called to “weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15) and to “bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). Let us lift our voices for the people of Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti, believing that even in the wake of disaster, God is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).
A Prayer for Jamaica and the Caribbean
Heavenly Father,
We come before You with heavy hearts for the people of Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti, nations battered by Hurricane Melissa’s fury. Lord, You are our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble. Even when the winds rage and the waters rise, You remain faithful.
We lift up those who have lost their homes and livelihoods. Provide shelter, resources, and peace. Surround them with helpers and hope.
We pray for those who have lost loved ones, that You, the God of all comfort, would wrap them in Your arms and grant them strength for each new day.
We intercede for those still unable to reach their families, waiting and praying for word. Calm their anxious hearts, and restore communication soon.
We ask Your covering over first responders, rescue teams, and volunteers, those risking their lives to save others. Protect them, strengthen them, and renew their endurance.
We remember those trapped in marooned communities, those without food or clean water, Lord, make a way where there seems to be none. Send help swiftly.
Bless the government and leaders of Jamaica with wisdom, compassion, and unity in the days ahead. May they act with integrity and urgency for the good of the people.
Lord, pour out Your mercy upon these islands. Let revival rise from the rubble, and beauty emerge from the ashes.
Where despair tries to settle, plant hope.
Where loss looms large, let love overflow.
And where hearts are weary, renew their strength in You.
In Jesus’ name we pray,
Amen.
How You Can Help
Here’s how you can stand with Jamaica and the Caribbean:
- Pray continually for those affected by Hurricane Melissa.
- Donate through official and trusted relief organizations:
- supportjamaica.gov.jm (Government of Jamaica’s official donation portal)
- Samaritan’s Purse
- World Central Kitchen
- UN World Food Programme
- Share this post to raise awareness and keep the spotlight on recovery efforts.
Even after the floodwaters recede, rebuilding takes time, but hope endures. The same God who stills the storm is the One who restores His people.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.” – Isaiah 43:2