Sean Paul Calls Jamaica’s Hurricane Aftermath ‘Overwhelming’
Singer Shares Emotional Account After Hurricane Melissa’s Destruction
Jamaican music icon Sean Paul described the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa as “overwhelming”, emphasizing the immense effort needed to support affected communities after the Category Five storm ravaged parts of the island last week.
The Grammy-winning reggae artist said the hurricane was “very frightening, especially for my young kids.” He told BBC News that it was the first time his children had witnessed such extreme weather.
“They’re still in shock and traumatised,” Paul shared. “Can you imagine what it’s like for children who were in the centre of the storm? It felt like something out of the Middle Ages.”
Severe Winds Leave Widespread Destruction
With winds reaching 185 mph (295 km/h), the powerful hurricane claimed at least 28 lives across Jamaica. Although Paul and his family were in Kingston, where damage was less severe, he described the storm as deeply unsettling.
“It was frightening,” he said. “You’re wondering at any minute if a tree might tear your roof off.”
He added that several of his friends in Montego Bay lost their homes but are still helping with relief efforts by providing food and clothing to those in need.
“Everyone’s belongings are covered in mud. It’s hard to think positively right now,” Paul noted.
Sean Paul Pledges Support for Relief Efforts
In response to the devastation, the artist pledged $50,000 (£38,000) to Food For The Poor Jamaica, promising to match public donations to support recovery operations.
Calling the situation “mind-blowing,” Paul said he had reached an emotional breaking point after days of trying to coordinate aid.
“On Saturday, I broke down,” he admitted. “It takes so much energy, and depression starts to creep in. But then you have to pull yourself together because there’s still so much work to do.”
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