Hurricane Melissa Causes 30 Deaths, Major Damage Across Caribbean

Hurricane Melissa has caused extensive destruction across the Caribbean, killing at least 30 people and leaving parts of Haiti, Jamaica, Cuba, and the Bahamas in ruins. The storm, initially a Category 5 with winds stronger than Hurricane Katrina, was downgraded to Category 1 as it moved towards Bermuda but still posed significant threats of flooding and wind damage. In Cuba, President Miguel Diaz-Canel described the damage as "extensive," with around 735,000 people evacuated, while residents faced flooded homes and downed power lines. The Bahamas lifted hurricane warnings for some regions but urged residents to remain cautious due to lingering risks. Rescue and response efforts are underway, with the U.S. and U.K. providing aid and emergency funding to affected areas. The storm has also disrupted infrastructure and left tens of thousands without power across the region, emphasizing the scale of devastation.