Hurricane Melissa leaves damage throughout the Caribbean. Here’s how to help

Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm earlier this week, and has left at least 27 dead in its wake throughout the Caribbean. Melissa has since weakened to a Cat 2 storm, but the South Florida community has come together to gather supplies, resources and food for those affected.

One-third of the island was still without power as of Wednesday evening, and will likely be in recovery for weeks to come. The Miami Herald has composed a list of ways to help those in the Caribbean affected by Melissa.

Need to know:

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INSIDE THE 305:

$175 million boost coming to resurgent Overtown, Miami’s original Black neighborhood

Overtown is set to see more development in the next few years with the development of affordable housing and reinvestment in existing historic structures.

‘True friend.’ Loved ones mourn Miramar woman killed in Pembroke Pines wreck

Family and friend of Kahri Willcot are mourning the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University graduate and Miramar native who was killed in a wreck in Pembroke Pines earlier this month. Willcot is remembered for her giving spirit and community service work.

OUTSIDE THE 305:

Jamaica’s tourist resorts and ports could face a long recovery from hurricane

Officials told the Miami Herald tourism in Jamaica has been greatly affected by Hurricane Melissa. As of Wednesday evening, Jamaica’s airports remained closed to visitors and cruise travel has been affected.

Miss Universe Haiti was crowned after two-year hiatus. Meet their queen

Melissa Queenie Sapini, a TV journalist and model, was appointed Miss Universe Haiti and will compete in the Miss Universe competition in Thailand next month. “For Haiti and for every Haitian in every corner of the world — this is bigger than a nation,” Sapini wrote in English and Creole on Instagram. “It’s about unity, and the Caribbean coming together to celebrate a single love.”

HIGH CULTURE: ‘Culture is forever:’ This new hangout spot wants to preserve Little Haiti’s vibe

The late night haunt in Little Haiti is hoping to keep Haitian culture alive in the Miami neighborhood. The local spot had its official fall opening this month and offers late night music, light bites and, on Sundays, a wellness day.

This story was originally published October 30, 2025 at 3:20 PM.