Hurricane Melissa made landfall in eastern Cuba early Wednesday as a Category 3 storm after pummeling Jamaica as a Category 5. Widespread damage in Jamaica has been reported as Melissa slammed ashore near the town of New Hope, destroying homes and businesses.

Evan Thompson, Principal Director at Meteorological Service, Jamaica, warned ahead of the storm, "It will cause catastrophic damage, life-threatening damage. There is very little that can stop a category five hurricane."

Powerful winds and fallen trees mark the trail of destruction and life-threatening flooding across the island. Roads are unpassable as storm surge up to 13 feet pours in.

The parish of St. Elizabeth is reportedly underwater, and over half a million residents are without power.

Four main hospitals suffered damage,

See Full Page