It Will Take Days to Know the Impact From 2025’s Worst Hurricane

Since Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica as the season’s most-intense storm, initial reports already show flooding and chaos. While those early signs of destruction are powerful, it will likely take hours — if not days — to assess the full scope of the damage.

Many communities stand to be cut off by floodwaters, landslides and debris-covered roadways. In addition, cell service and power failed in many places as the storm arrived, leaving some residents with no way to call for help. Experts have warned that Jamaica faces historic devastation, with local emergency managers ordering evacuations across the island and urging ...