Usain Bolt urges everyone to support Jamaica in Hurricane Melissa's aftermath
Legendary sprinter Usain Bolt has issued a heartfelt appeal to his fans, asking for donations to aid recovery efforts in Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
The powerful hurricane wreaked havoc across the island nation after making landfall near New Hope on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. With winds reaching speeds of 300 km/h, the storm caused widespread power outages and disrupted communication networks before moving towards Cuba. A full assessment of the damage is expected to take several days.
🇯🇲 The Jamaican flag is being raised across the island as a defiant symbol of strength, resilience, unity and hope in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.
— Jamaica Observer (@JamaicaObserver) October 30, 2025
Our beloved island may be damaged, but our spirits are not broken. 💛💚🖤
We will rebuild stronger, prouder and more united than… pic.twitter.com/KNzaXkKEFo
Hurricane Melissa underwent "extreme rapid intensification" upon reaching the coast, escalating from a Category 4 to a Category 5 storm. Its wind speeds doubled from 70 mph to 140 mph in just 24 hours, leaving a trail of destruction.
As rescue and recovery operations get underway, Bolt took to his social media platforms to rally support. He posted an image of folded hands against a backdrop of the damage, urging his followers to contribute to relief funds.
https://t.co/whkjILk9in pic.twitter.com/obJ4rF1X4m
— Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) October 29, 2025
Bolt's call to action follows a similar plea from fellow Jamaican track star Elaine Thompson-Herah, who had earlier advised citizens to remain cautious and alert as the storm approached.
Meanwhile, American track stars Noah Lyles, Christian Coleman, Vernon Norwood, and Sha'Carri Richardson also penned their messages of support to Jamaica during their difficult time.