In the wake of the hurricane, Cuba is currently experiencing landfall as reported by the Cable News Network (CNN).

Impact of the storm

According to reports from CNN, the storm has caused extensive damage to homes, hospitals, and schools in southern Jamaica. Currently, the deadly storm has resulted in the loss of 7 lives. Hurricane Mellissa is reported to have moved from category 3 to category 2 after 80 hours of being considered a severe storm. Winds are measured to be up to 105 mph. The hurricane has currently moved northwest of Guantánamo, Cuba and is expected to continue moving north-northeast towards the Bahamas.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the country as a disaster are as of yesterday. “We must continue to proactively maintain stability, protect consumers and prevent any exploitation at a time when citizens are securing food, water and supplies,” he said.

The devastation suffered by Jamaica includes the battering of infrastructure. According to Desmond McKenzie, Jamaica’s Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, buildings have been left severely compromised. The US President has signalled willingness to aid Jamaica on a humanitarian basis. “We are currently monitoring the damage inflicted by Hurricane Mellissa and we are prepared to move,” Trump said.