Jamaica's Coastal Towns Face Widespread Damage After Hurricane Melissa

Hurricane Melissa, a powerful Category 5 storm, has left a trail of destruction across Jamaica, particularly in coastal areas. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but satellite images provide a clear picture of the devastation. In Black River, a port town in the southwest, the impact is severe. Key buildings, including a market and a café, have been destroyed. The market's distinctive white roof is now a gaping hole, and the café has vanished. A warehouse and the top of a fire station have also been damaged. The Prime Minister described Black River as "ground zero, " highlighting the severity of the situation. White House, a fishing village on the west coast, suffered significant damage as Melissa made landfall. Nearly every structure appears to be affected, with buildings near the beach razed to the ground. Restaurants like Marva's and Pelican Lookout are among the casualties. Fishing boats that were once in the bay have disappeared, indicating the storm's destructive power. Montego Bay, a popular tourist destination, now resembles a brown swamp. Floodwaters have transformed the shore, inundating facilities at the port and industrial park. The container terminal, oil storage facility, water treatment plant, and a sports complex have all been badly affected. The mayor described the scene as "devastated, " emphasizing the community's resilience as they support each other. The storm's impact on Jamaica's infrastructure and economy is substantial. The damage to tourist destinations like Montego Bay could have long-term effects on the country's tourism industry. As the authorities continue to assess the damage, the focus remains on recovery and rebuilding.