King Charles has voiced deep sorrow and concern for the people of Jamaica and the Caribbean following the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa, describing it as one of the most devastating storms in recent memory. He urged global leaders to act swiftly to heal the planet and restore balance with nature.
In a message shared on Wednesday through The Royal Family, the King said he and Queen Camilla were heartbroken by the extent of the damage and loss of life. “My wife and I have been deeply concerned and profoundly saddened to see the catastrophic damage caused by the ferocity of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica and across the Caribbean,” he said. “Our anxious thoughts are with all those who have been so cruelly affected by this awful storm.”
The King extended his sympathy to families mourning loved ones and said Jamaica holds a special place in his heart, recalling his first visit over fifty years ago while serving in the Royal Navy. “Jamaica is a land for which I have had the greatest affection ever since I first visited the island while serving in the Royal Navy on the West Indies station over fifty years ago,” he said. “I know that no disaster can break her people's enduring spirit of strength, solidarity and steadfastness.”
He commended the bravery of rescue workers, emergency responders, and volunteers risking their lives to help those in need. “I particularly want to express my sincere admiration for all of you, and especially for those who have responded so courageously when that spirit has been called upon in a desperate situation such as this,” he said.
Hurricane Melissa has continued its catastrophic path across the Caribbean, destroying homes, flooding communities, and leaving dozens dead in its wake.
The full extent of the disaster in Jamaica became clear on Wednesday, after the island was struck head-on by the Category Five storm — one of the most powerful hurricanes ever recorded in the region. Authorities have confirmed at least five deaths there, with widespread destruction reported across the country.
In Haiti, severe flooding caused by Melissa’s torrential rains has claimed at least 20 lives, compounding the nation’s ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Though the hurricane has since weakened to a Category Two storm, it continues to unleash heavy rain and dangerous winds as it moves through the region. In Jamaica, thousands remain without power, and many residents are still stranded on rooftops awaiting rescue.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness described the situation as one of “total devastation,” pledging that the government is working urgently to reach affected communities and coordinate international aid.
King Charles further expressed gratitude to those who continue working tirelessly to support recovery efforts amid dangerous conditions. “I have the greatest appreciation for the efforts of the emergency services, frontline workers, and volunteers who are working bravely and tirelessly in support of rescue and recovery efforts across the island,” he said.
He used the message to renew his global call for urgent environmental action, warning that the record-breaking storm should serve as a stark reminder of the world’s growing imbalance with nature. “This most dreadful of record-breaking storms reminds us of the increasingly urgent need to restore the balance and harmony of Nature for the sake of all those whose lives and livelihoods may have been shattered by this heartbreaking disaster,” he said.
King Charles described the hurricane’s destruction as a painful lesson about the dangers of climate neglect and urged immediate collective action. He also praised the Jamaican people’s unity and determination in facing tragedy. “No disaster can break Jamaica’s enduring spirit of strength, solidarity and steadfastness,” he said.
The monarch closed his message with words of comfort and assurance to all those affected. “Our special prayers are with you all,” he wrote. “May the courage and compassion of your people light the path to recovery.”
His statement reflects both compassion and urgency, reaffirming his commitment to global environmental advocacy. It also reinforced his enduring affection for Jamaica, a nation he first came to know as a young naval officer more than five decades ago.
