Hurricane Melissa makes second landfall in Cuba after devastating parts of Jamaica

Hurricane Impact and Response - Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Cuba as a Category 3 storm with winds up to 120 mph, prompting evacuation of hundreds of thousands [1][4] - Jamaica was severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa, initially a Category 5 storm with maximum sustained winds reaching 185 mph, causing widespread damage and power outages affecting over 500,000 people [2] - Jamaica's infrastructure, including hospitals, roads, bridges, and waterways, sustained major damage [3] Relief and Recovery Efforts - Over 735,000 people were evacuated in Cuba, demonstrating the country's commitment to disaster preparedness despite economic challenges [6][9] - American Friends of Jamaica announced a $1 million matching fund to support relief and recovery efforts in Jamaica, focusing on partnering with local organizations [14][15] - Immediate needs in Jamaica include timber, zinc, tarpaulins, and food, as many people have lost their roofs and possessions due to torrential rains [17] - Cash donations are prioritized for immediate relief efforts, while supplies are needed later; an airlift is being staged to arrive in Jamaica as soon as the airport reopens [22][23] Community Resilience and Tourism Impact - Despite the devastation, Jamaicans are known for their resilience and strong community spirit, fostering confidence in the country's ability to recover [18][19] - The hurricane hit Jamaica on the shoulder of its high season for tourism, potentially leading to a very difficult path to recovery for the tourism capital [19]