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

Emergency water systems and medical teams deployed to Jamaica following Category 5 Hurricane Melissa with additional Samaritan's Purse relief flights planned.

Article last updated: Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, 7 p.m. ET

Dr. Andy Hazelton was onboard five flights with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Hurricane Hunters into Hurricane Melissa, calling the storm that was clocked 250 mph winds at flight height "another level.

It also marks the first time in 20 years that three or more Category 5 hurricanes have developed over the Atlantic Basin in one season. The last time was in 2005, when Hurricanes Emily, Katrina, Rita, and Wilma all reached Category 5—breaking a record.

Article last updated: Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, 4 p.m. ET

A University Heights woman confirms her 80 family members in Jamaica are safe after Hurricane Melissa, but their homes suffered damage from the Category 5 storm.

Arthur Blank, owner of the Atlanta Falcons, has pledged an initial $1.5 million through his foundation to aid Hurricane Melissa relief efforts across Jamaica and the Caribbean.