Melissa Dissipates in Caribbean
Melissa, the most powerful storm ever to directly hit Jamaica, has begun to dissipate after causing devastation across the Caribbean.
The storm has left at least 50 dead in its wake, cutting off communities in Cuba and drenching Haiti.
- Estimated damage and economic loss: $US48 billion to $US52 billion ($A73 billion to $A80 billion)
- First major hurricane to hit Jamaica since 1988
Melissa was the most powerful storm ever to directly hit Jamaica
US forecaster AccuWeather estimated the significant damage and economic loss across the western Caribbean.
Author's summary: Storm Melissa dissipates after devastating the Caribbean.