Sean Paul Describes 'Overwhelming' Aftermath of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica

Tue Nov 04 2025 06:39:33 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Jamaican superstar shares his experiences and the devastation faced by his homeland after Hurricane Melissa, emphasizing the urgency of aid and the trauma experienced by families, especially children.

Jamaican singer Sean Paul reflects on the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica, revealing the overwhelming challenges in recovery efforts. The category five storm resulted in at least 28 fatalities and left many in dire situations without necessities. Paul describes the trauma faced by children and the challenges in aiding affected communities, while fellow artist Shaggy also coordinates efforts for relief.

Jamaican music superstar Sean Paul has addressed the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, calling the scale of the recovery effort 'overwhelming' after the hurricane ravaged parts of the island last week.

The Grammy-winning reggae artist expressed that the category five storm was particularly frightening for his young children. 'That's the first time they've seen trees dance like that and the wind move like that,' he told BBC News, adding that his children are still in shock and traumatized. He extended his concern for those most affected, saying it feels like living in the 'Middle Ages.'

Winds reaching speeds of 185 mph (295 km/h) led to at least 28 fatalities, with Sean Paul's family located in Kingston, a city that experienced lesser damage compared to other regions.

Paul recounted, 'It is really difficult to bear. We weren't hit in Kingston very hard, but it was frightening. And you're wondering, at any minute now is there going to be, you know, some tree that comes along and slaps your roof off?'

He revealed that friends in Montego Bay lost their entire roofs and continue to assist in recovery efforts, gathering food and clothes for affected individuals. The devastation leaves many without essentials and in dire need of help, with Paul pledging $50,000 (£38,000) as matching donations to Food For The Poor Jamaica.

Discussing the emotional toll, Paul shared, 'After days and days of communication and trying to help out in different ways, on Saturday I broke down. It's just the amount of energy it takes, and the depression that starts to set in.'

He highlighted ongoing challenges, mentioning that areas remain without power and impacted individuals often lack awareness of the aid efforts ongoing due to communication barriers. Paul noted a distressing story involving 15 babies under three months old who are currently sleeping in cardboard boxes.

Additionally, fellow Jamaican artist Shaggy has been leading efforts to deliver essentials to the hardest-hit areas. Expressing his sadness, he remarked, 'I don't think I can unsee what I've seen... It breaks my heart. I couldn't help but weep. These are my people.'

Shaggy is also organizing a benefit concert for December as part of long-term recovery efforts, recognizing the need for coordinated relief and support for the affected communities.

Sean Paul supported this sentiment, emphasizing a need for a strategic approach to recovery and outreach instead of rapid responses that might lack the desired impact.