By Val Matthias. Updated 8:16 a.m., Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
In an address during St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ 46th Independence Rally at the Arnos Vale Stadium, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves shifted the spotlight from celebration to concern, calling on Vincentians to stand in solidarity with Jamaica as Hurricane Melissa now a catastrophic Category 5 storm barrels toward the island.
“They are facing the immediate peril of Hurricane Melissa,” Gonsalves declared, referencing the storm possibly forecasted to be the most powerful in Jamaica’s recorded history. With landfall expected early Tuesday, Melissa is set to unleash 175 mph winds, torrential rain, and life threatening storm surges, prompting widespread evacuations and emergency sheltering across the island.
The Prime Minister expressed deep empathy for Vincentian students and nationals currently residing in Jamaica, many of whom are enrolled at the University of the West Indies (Mona), the University of Technology (UTEC), Edna Manley College, and GC Foster College.
“Over the last several days, I’ve been in touch with the President of the Vincentian student organization and university authorities,” he said. “Just before arriving at this parade, I spoke with the president of that organization. I am praying for their safety and welfare, and I urge you to do the same.”
Gonsalves assured the public that his administration is actively monitoring the situation and addressing all relevant concerns tied to the impending disaster. He emphasized that the government is prepared to support Vincentians in Jamaica through coordinated efforts with regional partners and educational institutions.
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