Today in Focus Living through the horror of Hurricane Melissa
14 snips
Oct 31, 2025 Natricia Duncan, The Guardian's Caribbean correspondent, provides a compelling on-the-ground perspective of Hurricane Melissa's devastating impact on Jamaica. She shares harrowing accounts of community preparations and fears before the storm. After Melissa makes landfall, Natricia reveals the extent of the destruction, citing destroyed homes and flooded areas. She discusses the economic toll on the island and links the storm's intensity to climate change, emphasizing the need for increased advocacy and awareness for vulnerable regions.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Home Preparations And Reluctant Evacuations
- Residents described frantic preparations, battening windows, packing bags and lining shoes by the door as Melissa approached.
- Some stayed put despite orders, citing fear of shelters and loyalty to family and property.
Rapid Intensification Amplified Destruction
- Meteorologists flagged rapid intensification: Melissa became Category 5 with winds up to 165–185 mph in days.
- Faster intensification and slow motion made the storm far more destructive via surge and prolonged damage.
Prepare For Mandatory Evacuation
- Officials urged mandatory evacuations and use of emergency shelters for flood-prone areas.
- Shelters require packing medication and small food supplies because services may be limited.