UNICEF is working with partners and local authorities to conduct rapid needs assessment and coordinate emergency response for children and families.

Hurricane Melissa has unleashed unprecedented destruction on Jamaica, marking one of the most powerful storms ever recorded in the Atlantic. With sustained winds reaching 185 mph and a central pressure of 892 millibars—tied for the third lowest in Atlantic hurricane history—the storm has forced the nation into a state of emergency and left millions scrambling for safety.

Hurricane Melissa damaged several Caribbean islands and left at least 60 people dead. One family that was trapped in Jamaica is just now getting back home.

Hurricane Melissa has hit southwestern Jamaica as a catastrophic Category 5 storm, causing heavy flooding and wind damage.

New satellite imagery captures the complete devastation across Jamaica left in the wake of deadly Hurricane Melissa. With the help of satellites, we are beginning to get an understanding of just how catastrophic Hurricane Melissa was.

After lashing Jamaica with dangerous winds and flooding rain, Melissa made a second landfall in Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane on Wednesday morning. Melissa then moved through the Bahamas, and next, on Thursday night, the storm will pass Bermuda as a Category 1 or 2 hurricane.

Hurricane Melissa has devastated Jamaica, causing severe damage to fishing and farming communities. Prince Davis, a fisherman, discovered his boat and home were destroyed while he was in Nicaragua.

Tampa businessman David Luckain was born in Jamaica. He was there visiting when Hurricane Melissa hit the Island on October 28th and says he's never experienced anything like it.