Port-au-Prince, November 12: Hurricane Melissa has wreaked severe destruction across southern Haiti, leaving at least 43 people dead and flooding over 12,000 homes. The storm, which made landfall last week, caused widespread damage, particularly in rural communities where homes are vulnerable to severe weather.
Officials reported that 200 homes were completely destroyed, while thousands more suffered partial damage. In addition, 13 people remain missing, prompting urgent search and rescue operations. Floodwaters are gradually receding, revealing the scale of devastation and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
International aid agencies have mobilized to provide emergency relief, delivering food, clean water, and temporary shelter to affected families. Local authorities are coordinating efforts to restore electricity, clear debris, and reopen roads to ensure vital supplies reach isolated communities.
President Ariel Henry expressed his condolences to victims’ families and called for accelerated emergency response, emphasizing the importance of preparedness amid Haiti’s vulnerability to hurricanes and tropical storms.
Experts warn that climate change may be intensifying storms in the Caribbean, making rapid-response infrastructure and early-warning systems increasingly critical for safeguarding communities.
Haitians are now facing the dual challenges of rebuilding homes and recovering livelihoods amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis, with international partners pledging continued support in the days ahead.
