At Least 1.6 Million Children at Risk as Hurricane Melissa Threatens the Caribbean, UNICEF Ramps Up Emergency Response.
PANAMA CITY:
As Hurricane Melissa churns slowly through the Caribbean Sea, the region braces for heavy winds, torrential rainfall, and flash flooding that threaten to disrupt lives and critical services across several island nations. UNICEF estimates that at least 1.6 million children are at risk as the powerful storm approaches landfall within the next 48 hours.
Countries including Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic are expected to face several days of intense weather conditions, heightening concerns for families in vulnerable coastal communities. The hurricane’s path, marked by slow movement and strong gusts, increases the likelihood of severe flooding and infrastructure damage.
“All efforts to prepare for the arrival of the hurricane are vital to mitigate damage and loss of life in the most vulnerable communities, especially in regions like the Caribbean. Small islands always face heightened vulnerability to extreme climate events,” said Roberto Benes, UNICEF Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean. “UNICEF helps strengthen national capacities to anticipate and respond to climate-related emergencies, and to deliver essential services for children. This is fundamental to protecting those who need it most.”
The Latin America and Caribbean region is recognized as the second most disaster-prone region in the world, with children among the most affected by hurricanes and other natural disasters. Over the past decade, an estimated 11 million people, including nearly 4 million children, have been directly impacted each year by natural and human-made hazards.
In anticipation of Hurricane Melissa’s impact, UNICEF and its partners have pre-positioned life-saving supplies and are working closely with national authorities to bolster preparedness and response measures. These include distributing hygiene kits, water purifiers and containers, medical supplies, and sharing early warning messages with communities. Additionally, cash assistance programmes are being implemented in parts of southern Haiti to help families strengthen their resilience and meet urgent needs.
UNICEF has appealed for $19 million in 2025 to enhance emergency preparedness and strengthen disaster response capacities across the Latin America and Caribbean region. The organization’s ongoing efforts aim to ensure that children and their families can access essential services such as clean water, healthcare, education, and protection, even amid escalating climate-related disasters.
As the Caribbean braces for the full force of Hurricane Melissa, UNICEF continues to work with governments and local partners to ensure swift, coordinated action to protect the most vulnerable — especially the region’s children — from the devastating impacts of the storm.
