Impacts from Hurricane Melissa Monitored by Copernicus EMS
Hurricane Melissa formed over the central Caribbean Sea on 22 October 2025. It moved northwest, making landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 hurricane, the strongest ever recorded on the island. The storm then crossed the Jamaica Channel, striking eastern Cuba with sustained Category 3 intensity before weakening over the northern Caribbean.
The damage from Hurricane Melissa was severe, impacting both lives and infrastructure. In response, the Copernicus Emergency Management Service (CEMS) was activated under EMSR847 to assess flood extents and impacts in affected areas.
Copernicus EMS Activation and Response
The activation covered 29 areas of interest. By 4 November, over 31 assessment products had been published, with more maps expected soon. The data visualization showcases recent grading products for the Big Woods, Bull Savanna, Arlington, Santa Cruz, and Top Hill regions in Jamaica.
EU Science for Preparedness Conference
The EU Science for Preparedness Conference was held from 4 to 6 November 2025. It was organised by the Joint Research Centre, which manages the Copernicus EMS, together with the Disaster Risk Management Knowledge Centre. The event offered opportunities to exchange knowledge, test new tools, and connect with experts dedicated to improving science-based crisis preparedness and response.
The live streaming of the conference is available here.
Additional information on the Copernicus EMS response is accessible through official channels.
Summary: Hurricane Melissa's devastating impact triggered a major Copernicus EMS activation, providing critical data to support crisis management and highlighted at a key EU preparedness conference.