Hurricane Melissa: What is MSF doing and how can I help?
On Tuesday 28 October 2025, Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica causing devastating flooding and widespread destruction. The hurricane then swept across Cuba and is affecting Haiti and other countries in the region.
In the immediate aftermath, Jamaica's airport was closed, but MSF emergency teams were busy preparing for action and landed in the country with a team and supplies only a few days later.
What is MSF doing?
- MSF emergency teams reached Jamaica on 1 November and are actively assessing the most imminent needs following the massive destruction that Hurricane Melissa left behind
- The teams are reaching the most remote areas where people have been completely cut off due to road damage and massive damage in regional hospitals and healthcare centres
- A full MSF cargo shipment has been sent from Brussels and reached Jamaica with medical supplies and essential items such increasing the water storage, distribute water filters, hygiene kits, jerrycans, drum covers, mosquito nets, repellent sheet, kitchen kit, and plastic sheeting
- MSF teams will start working in St James Parish and in St Elisabeth Parish in the west area of Jamaica, supporting the regional hospitals and health centres
- In remote areas of St Elisabeth parish, MSF teams have provided basic psychosocial support to people
How can I help MSF in Jamaica?
Right now, our teams are responding in Jamaica and assessing the medical and humanitarian needs.
This is only possible because of donations from people like you.
By giving to our general funds today, you will be helping to ensure we can respond to emergencies around the world, like the hurricane in Jamaica.
Please donate today to support our emergency teams.
Click here to learn more about how we spend your money.
MSF and natural disasters
Catastrophic events such as earthquakes, cyclones or tsunamis can overwhelm entire communities, cities or regions within minutes.
Thousands of people may be killed and many more traumatised by the loss of family, friends and homes. However, while the disaster may occur in moments, the humanitarian consequences may last for months and even years.
Since 1971, MSF teams have taken life-saving emergency action in many of the most devastating events to hit the headlines.