Sean Paul Decries the 'Overwhelming' Hurricane Aftermath in Jamaica

Tue Nov 04 2025 02:11:37 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Jamaican superstar Sean Paul reflects on the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa and pledges support for recovery efforts.

Following the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, Sean Paul describes the scene as 'overwhelming,' particularly for families and children affected by the disaster. The storm, which resulted in at least 28 fatalities, prompted Paul to donate $50,000 to aid relief efforts and call for more help in unreachable areas. Fellow artist Shaggy also coordinates assistance, emphasizing the severe devastation witnessed throughout the island.

Sean Paul Decries the 'Overwhelming' Hurricane Aftermath in Jamaica

Jamaican music superstar Sean Paul expressed the enormity of the situation in his homeland following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The category five storm, which hit the island last week, left a path of destruction and resulted in at least 28 fatalities. Paul described the experience as 'very frightening,' especially for young children who witnessed the storm's ferocity.

Speaking to BBC News, he conveyed, That's the first time they've seen trees dance like that and the wind move like that. They're in shock still, and traumatized. And can you imagine the children who are in the epicenter of it? It feels like you're in the Middle Ages. The family was located in Kingston during the storm, while western areas experienced more severe damage.

With winds reaching up to 185 mph (295 km/h), Paul stated the aftermath was difficult to bear. We weren't hit in Kingston very hard, but it was frightening... I broke down after days of communication and trying to help out. The amount of energy it takes, and the depression that starts to set in, is overwhelming, he remarked.

In response to the disaster, he pledged $50,000 to match donations to Food For The Poor Jamaica, stressing the need for support for those directly impacted by the storm. As he visited areas that had been affected, he noted, They don't have light yet, and a lot of people out there can't even see the rest of what's happening. Some people don't even know that help is being prepared for them. Paul highlighted challenges in distributing aid due to blocked roads and the severe condition of affected regions.

Fellow Jamaican artist Shaggy has also been actively involved in relief efforts, coordinating supplies for those in need. It's rough, there's a lot of aid coming in, Shaggy said, reflecting on the heartbreaking scenes he has encountered. Both artists are looking ahead to future fundraising initiatives to assist with the recovery efforts necessary to rebuild their community.