Hurricane Melissa Strands Thousands in Jamaica; UK, US Organize Mass Evacuations

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm with winds up to 185 mph, severely impacted Jamaica and nearby Haiti, causing numerous fatalities and widespread devastation. Approximately 8,000 British nationals were stranded in Jamaica, where tourist areas like Montego Bay were heavily damaged; the UK government chartered flights to repatriate those unable to secure commercial flights and pledged £7.5 million in humanitarian aid for shelter, solar lamps, and sanitation. Similarly, over 300 Americans stranded by the hurricane were rescued and flown home through efforts coordinated by the Florida-based non-profit Grey Bull Rescue. Many tourists, including groups such as a Charleston-area woman and friends, faced canceled flights and challenging conditions post-storm but remained physically safe thanks to resort staff support. Both British and American evacuees recounted the chaos during the hurricane's landfall and the difficult aftermath without power and basic services. The UK and US responses highlight the ongoing efforts to assist stranded nationals and support disaster relief in the region.