‘New reality’: Hurricane Melissa strength multiplied by climate crisis, study says

The Guardian
The Guardian 3M Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica as a category five storm, causing extensive damage and loss of life. The storm's intensity was exacerbated by climate change, highlighting urgent global warming concerns.
‘New reality’: Hurricane Melissa strength multiplied by climate crisis, study says
Why it matters
On October 28, 2025, Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica as a category five hurricane, bringing winds of up to 185 mph and causing widespread devastation. The storm resulted in damages estimated at $6 billion, displacing hundreds of thousands and leading to at least 61 fatalities. A study by an international team of scientists revealed that climate change has intensified the storm's strength, making winds of this magnitude five times more frequent. The research indicates that global warming has increased maximum wind speeds by 7% and extreme rainfall by 16%. The rapid intensification of Melissa, which saw wind speeds rise dramatically in just one day, exemplifies the alarming trend of increasingly severe storms due to climate change. As Jamaica begins the arduous task of recovery, the need for international climate finance becomes critical, with calls for developed nations to fulfill their commitments to support vulnerable countries.
TOPICS

Climate & Environment Climate Change

Be prepared — without the noise

Calm, decision-grade intelligence that flags material changes before they become social knowledge—so you can update assumptions, not chase headlines.

DECISION-GRADE INTELLIGENCE

Get decision-grade intelligence in your inbox

A high-signal brief covering what changed — and what matters — delivered by email.

A handful of briefs — before your coffee gets cold.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. We don’t sell your email.