BLACK RIVER, JAMAICA, 02 Nov. - (ANA) - The road from Jamaica’s capital to the seaside town of Black River was known for its lush bamboo forest that formed a natural tunnel and glowed green in the bright sun.

 

Hurricane Melissa made landfall in southwest Jamaica this week near the coastal town of Black River, which the government has described as “ground zero.” 

 

Nearly 90% of roofs were destroyed as the Category 5 storm snapped power lines and toppled concrete structures. Hunger is growing as people in Black River and beyond scramble for relief among the ruins. 

 

Helicopters are hovering over isolated communities and dropping food as crews rush to reopen roads. At least 19 people were reported killed in Jamaica, including several in St. Elizabeth parish, where Black River is located. 

 

One of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes to make landfall, Melissa has been blamed for at least 19 deaths in Jamaica, and 31 in nearby Haiti.

 

AB/ANA/02 November 2025 - - -