Hurricane Melissa Death Toll Rises to 67; Jamaica Faces Insured Losses Up to $4 Billion

Hurricane Melissa has left a trail of destruction across the Caribbean, with the death toll now reaching 67 and insured losses in Jamaica estimated between $2.2 billion and $4.2 billion.

 

In Jamaica, the storm claimed 32 lives, according to Education Minister Dana Morris Dixon. Haiti reported 34 fatalities, while the Dominican Republic confirmed one death.

 

The hurricane's impact was severe, with 77% of homes and businesses in Jamaica losing power at the storm's peak. By Monday afternoon, less than 50% remained without electricity, as efforts to restore services continued. 

 

Evacuees are returning to devastated communities. Jamaican Senator Abka Fitz-Henley described the scene in Saint Elizabeth Parish as "heartbreaking," noting the sight of children holding signs pleading for food. 

 

Verisk, a data analytics firm, estimates insured losses in Jamaica between $2.2 billion and $4.2 billion, with the majority attributed to wind damage. The company highlighted that many roofs were constructed with minimal professional input, leading to significant destruction. 

 

AccuWeather projects total economic losses across the Caribbean to range from $48 billion to $52 billion.

 

The United States has pledged at least $11 million to support relief efforts in the region. 

 

Hurricane Melissa is noted as the most intense hurricane to make landfall in Jamaica since record-keeping began. 

 

As recovery efforts continue, the resilience and solidarity of the Caribbean people remain evident in the face of this unprecedented disaster.