Tag Archives: life-threatening

‘Life-Threatening Damage’: Hurricane Melissa Makes Landfall in Cuba After Battering Jamaica

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Hurricane Melissa Strikes Eastern Cuba After Devastating Jamaica as Category 5 Storm

Hurricane Melissa made landfall in eastern Cuba early Wednesday as a Category 3 storm, following its destructive path across Jamaica as a Category 5 hurricane. The powerful storm slammed ashore near the town of New Hope, leaving widespread damage in its wake.

In Jamaica, homes and businesses were destroyed, with officials reporting catastrophic damage. Evan Thompson, Principal Director at the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, issued a grim warning ahead of the storm: “It will cause catastrophic damage, life-threatening damage. There is very little that can stop a category five hurricane.”

Powerful winds and fallen trees have marked the trail of destruction across the island, accompanied by life-threatening flooding. Roads have become impassable as storm surges as high as 13 feet poured in. The parish of St. Elizabeth is reportedly underwater, and over half a million residents are currently without power. Four main hospitals suffered damage, with one losing power entirely, necessitating the evacuation of 75 patients.

In response to the widespread devastation, the Prime Minister of Jamaica has declared the entire island a disaster area.

Personal Stories: Dreams Washed Away by Melissa

Shantelle Nova was preparing for her dream wedding in Jamaica when Hurricane Melissa struck, flooding the venue and forcing the cancellation of her plans. “Windows are broken, a lot of water is coming in, so we’re just basically pushing towels and stuff at the doors,” Nova said. “And the level of noise is ridiculous. Trees have really bent over and flew away, and some of our roof is completely off.”

Severe Flooding in Cuba

In Cuba, severe flooding inundated streets in Santiago de Cuba as the storm brought heavy rains and strong winds prior to making landfall. Forecasters predicted up to 20 inches of rain in some areas, along with significant storm surges along the coast.

Authorities evacuated approximately 500,000 people from areas vulnerable to high winds and flooding as Melissa moved across the Caribbean.

Operation Blessing Mobilizes Disaster Relief Efforts

CBN’s Operation Blessing is actively preparing to assist victims of Hurricane Melissa. The team is packing essential supplies and getting ready to deploy aid to those affected by the storm.

On CBN’s Faith Nation, Diego Traverso, Senior Director for Operation Blessing’s Global Disaster Response Team, shared the challenges they face: “We don’t know how catastrophic this is going to be, if the water is going to recede, if the airports are going to be open and when they’re going to be open. So, at this point, we are just getting ready as close as we can to the island and praying for favor so we can either ride on an airplane, private one or commercial.”

The relief supplies include water, food, solar lamps, hygiene kits, as well as chlorinators and water purification units to provide clean drinking water. Traverso emphasized the critical need for clean water: “Water is going to be critical; the different ways for them to get water is going to get polluted. Pray for the people of Jamaica. Pray for the team of Operation Blessing.”

Operation Blessing is also preparing cargo shipments, which include pallets of food and hygienic items to support displaced families.

Next Steps and Ongoing Response

Hurricane Melissa is forecast to move into the Bahamas later Wednesday. Jamaican officials are hopeful that the island’s airports will reopen by Thursday, facilitating relief efforts and travel. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that the United States is prepared to send assistance as needed.

As recovery efforts continue, communities remain vigilant, praying for safety and relief in the storm’s aftermath.

http://www.cbn.com/api/urlredirect.aspx?u=http://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2025/october/life-threatening-damage-hurricane-melissa-makes-landfall-in-cuba-after-battering-jamaica

‘Catastrophic’ Hurricane Melissa Levels Jamaica With 185 MPH Winds, Widespread Flooding

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A monster Category 5 hurricane, Melissa, slammed into Jamaica on Tuesday afternoon with sustained winds reaching 185 miles per hour. Forecasters predicted rainfall accumulating in feet and a storm surge capable of swamping properties across the island.

“Don’t bet against Melissa. It is a bet we can’t win,” warned Desmond McKenzie, Jamaica’s Minister of Local Government, during a press briefing just before the storm made landfall. Although nearly six thousand shelters were opened, Mr. McKenzie expressed concern that few residents were taking advantage of them.

Hurricane Melissa intensified into one of the strongest storms on record in the Atlantic basin, surpassing even Hurricane Katrina, which devastated New Orleans and the U.S. Gulf Coast in 2005. The National Weather Service issued an urgent alert late Tuesday morning: “This is an extremely dangerous and life-threatening situation! Take cover now!”

According to the National Hurricane Center, catastrophic winds could lead to total structural failure, especially in higher elevation areas where wind speeds were expected to be up to 30 percent stronger than at lower elevations.

Damage reports emerged as the storm battered the island. The Black River Hospital in the parish of St. Elizabeth lost part of its roof; fortunately, the affected area was not where patients are housed. Numerous roads and bridges in St. Elizabeth became impassable, and roofs were torn off houses throughout the parish. However, the full extent of the damage was not expected to be known until after the storm passed, particularly in remote areas.

Power outages affected nearly 250,000 people even before landfall, with numbers expected to rise. In Kingston, most power was already down, according to a BBC reporter riding out the storm in the city. Jamaica’s Energy Minister, Daryl Vaz, confirmed that substations, transmission lines, and distribution lines across the country were out of service. A Jamaica Public Service building in St. Elizabeth lost its roof as well, but power officials assured that restoration efforts would begin as soon as it is safe for crews to operate.

At the time of the storm, approximately 25,000 tourists remained on the island, most of whom were staying at resort properties designed to better withstand such severe weather.

Forecasters predicted 15 to 30 inches of rainfall across parts of Jamaica, with some areas potentially receiving up to 40 inches. This raised the risk of catastrophic flash flooding and numerous landslides. Additionally, a life-threatening storm surge of 9 to 13 feet, accompanied by large and destructive waves, was anticipated. On Jamaica’s northwest coast near Montego Bay, storm surges of 2 to 4 feet were possible.

After hitting Jamaica, Melissa accelerated eastward but was still expected to reach southeastern Cuba as an extremely dangerous major hurricane before moving across the southeastern Bahamas. Tropical storm conditions were forecast to begin in eastern Cuba Tuesday afternoon, escalating to hurricane conditions overnight into Wednesday morning.

Cuban authorities expected 10 to 20 inches of rain and a significant storm surge along the southeast coast, with peak storm surge heights of 8 to 12 feet above normal tide levels.

Most U.S. military personnel were ordered to evacuate the Guantanamo Bay base ahead of the storm, though a shelter-in-place order was issued for remaining personnel.

Tropical storm conditions were also expected in Haiti later Tuesday and Wednesday. Afterward, the storm was projected to move northward into the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, with little impact on the U.S. coastline.

No new deaths were reported following the storm’s passage, in addition to three fatalities reported during preparations.

In response to the disaster, the Jamaican government announced cash assistance for some victims. They also established a rebuilding and relief portal to combat fraudulent fundraisers. Senator Dana Morris Dixon cautioned the public: “We have already been made aware of some nefarious individuals trying to collect money on behalf of Jamaica. We remind you that this will be the official site. If it doesn’t have .gov.jm, it’s not legitimate; it’s not an official government of Jamaica site.”
https://www.nysun.com/article/catastrophic-hurricane-melissa-hits-jamaica-with-185-mph-winds

Hochul vetoes bill boosting EMS staffing on NYC 911 calls — inspired by first responder’s murder

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**Gov. Kathy Hochul Vetoes Legislation Mandating Two Qualified Medical Responders on 911 Calls in NYC**

Governor Kathy Hochul has vetoed legislation inspired by the deadly stabbing of EMS Lt. Alison Russo in 2022. The bill would have required that two qualified medical first responders be dispatched to 911 emergency calls in New York City.

In her veto message dated October 16, Governor Hochul expressed concerns that the bill “would pose a fiscal and workforce issue” for the city. The legislation would necessitate hiring an additional 290 Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) at an estimated cost of $25 million.

The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) indicated that to comply with the bill, EMTs would need to be reassigned to pair with supervisors responding to 911 calls. This realignment, according to the FDNY, would result in fewer ambulances available for service, exacerbating response time issues.

The union representing 911 ambulance responders criticized the veto, calling it heartless and detrimental to worker safety. Oren Barzilay, president of FDNY EMS Local 2507, stated, “Amending the law would ensure that supervisors working in EMS vehicles would work in teams just as EMTs and paramedics do. It’s saddening that the murder of Lt. Russo was not evident enough to show the dangers of our job that legislation to protect our members was vetoed.”

The FDNY, which has faced increased response times to life-threatening medical emergencies, confirmed it had recommended Governor Hochul veto the bill. In an official statement, the department said, “Ensuring the safety of New Yorkers is always our top priority, and that means making sure our first responders can reach those in need as quickly and efficiently as possible. We are immensely grateful to Governor Hochul for heeding our warning about this bill, which would have inevitably led to fewer ambulances on the streets and longer response times for emergency medical services.”

Currently, ambulances in New York City are staffed by two EMTs or paramedics. Supervisors respond to emergency scenes in separate vehicles, providing guidance and oversight. According to the FDNY, these supervisors typically do not spend significant time working alone at emergency sites.

Union leaders expressed disbelief over the veto rationale. Barzilay highlighted the disparity, pointing out that the $25 million cost cited by Governor Hochul is minimal compared to the FDNY’s $2.6 billion budget and the city’s $116 billion overall budget. “The total lack of investment by City Hall in EMS is an ongoing crisis that is hurting New Yorkers. Governor Hochul’s veto message says that money is more important than the safety of the men and women of the busiest EMS agency in the world,” he said.

Barzilay further criticized the city’s spending priorities, saying, “New York City continually prioritizes other spending initiatives and relegates public safety to the back seat, while EMS members are bloodied, attacked, and mugged in countless dangerous situations.”

The legislation stemmed from the tragic murder of Lt. Alison Russo, who was fatally stabbed by Peter Zisopoulos in an unprovoked attack just a half-block from her Queens stationhouse on September 29, 2022.

Following Russo’s murder, an FDNY investigative report recommended assigning another EMS staff member—an officer’s aide—to accompany responders during 911 calls. This measure aimed to establish a safer work environment and enhance situational awareness for EMS personnel in the field.
https://nypost.com/2025/10/21/us-news/hochul-vetoes-bill-boosting-ems-staffing-on-nyc-911-calls-inspired-by-first-responders-murder/

Several hurt after apartment balcony collapses in Cincinnati

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At least 10 people were injured when the wooden balcony of a third-floor apartment collapsed Friday evening in Cincinnati, Ohio, officials said.

Cincinnati Fire Chief Frank McKinley told reporters that the balcony gave way at an apartment complex in the Corryville neighborhood, located just off the campus of the University of Cincinnati.

Chief McKinley said 10 people were rushed to local hospitals, with at least one sustaining life-threatening injuries. The exact conditions of the victims were not immediately provided.

The circumstances leading up to the collapse remain unknown. “From what we’re being told, it was a gathering, many of these individuals were students,” McKinley said. “We don’t have the detailed information of what was actually being celebrated.”

It is also unclear how many people were on the balcony at the time of the collapse. The situation is under investigation, and the university has been notified.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/several-hurt-apartment-balcony-collapses-university-of-cincinnati/

Breakthrough Israeli AI slashes head-CT wait times, flags missed brain bleeds – exclusive

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**Breakthrough Israeli AI Slashes Head-CT Wait Times, Flags Missed Brain Bleeds**

An innovative AI system developed in Israel and installed on CT scanners at Assuta Medical Centers has significantly reduced reporting times for suspected stroke cases. This advanced technology not only accelerates diagnosis but also accurately identifies life-threatening intracranial hemorrhages that might otherwise be missed.

The implementation of this AI-driven solution marks a major advancement in emergency medical care, enabling faster and more reliable detection of brain bleeds. Early identification is crucial for effective treatment, improving patient outcomes and potentially saving lives.

*Brain scans (photo credit: Shutterstock)*

By Dr. Itay Gal
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-869819

Breakthrough Israeli AI slashes head-CT wait times, flags missed brain bleeds – exclusive

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**Breakthrough Israeli AI Slashes Head-CT Wait Times, Flags Missed Brain Bleeds**

An Israeli-developed artificial intelligence system, recently installed on CT scanners at Assuta Medical Centers, has significantly reduced reporting times for patients with suspected stroke. This cutting-edge technology not only accelerates diagnosis but also helps identify life-threatening intracranial hemorrhages that might otherwise be missed.

The system analyzes brain scans quickly and accurately, allowing medical teams to respond faster and improve patient outcomes in critical situations.

*Brain scans (photo credit: SHUTTERSTOCK)*

By Dr. Itay Gal
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-869819

You’ll Never Guess the Salaries of These 15 Undesirable Jobs – Are You Tempted?

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Ever wondered about the high-paying jobs that are often shunned due to their inherent dangers or other reasons? Those that seem to hold little appeal? If curiosity has piqued your interest, get ready to delve into a list of undesirable occupations that surprisingly come with impressive paychecks.

How much do these jobs make? What makes them unattractive to most? Discover the world of these seldom-chosen professions and satisfy your curiosity by uncovering their earnings. Prepare to be surprised as we explore the fascinating intersection of money, risk, and occupational choices.

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### 1. Sewage Inspector

Let’s dive into our list. First, we have the sewage inspector. A sewage inspector is responsible for inspecting and monitoring sewage systems in a given area to ensure they function properly and safely. They may work for government agencies, private companies, or consulting firms.

Their main duties include conducting inspections of sewage systems, identifying and reporting issues, and ensuring all systems comply with codes and regulations. They may also investigate complaints related to sewage systems and respond to emergencies such as spills or leaks.

This job is undesirable due to the nature of the work—it involves unpleasant environments, exposure to hazardous materials, and foul odors. Additionally, it can be physically demanding and requires working in confined spaces. Specialized training and certification are also necessary, making qualified candidates harder to find.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for environmental compliance inspectors, which includes sewage inspectors, is $71,130. Salaries can vary depending on location, experience, and employer.

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### 2. Bull Semen Collector

A bull semen collector collects semen from bulls for artificial insemination. The process involves using an electro-ejaculation device to stimulate the bull’s reproductive organs and collect the semen using a specialized tool. The semen is then stored for laboratory analysis or direct use.

This job requires comfort working with large, powerful animals and handling their reproductive organs. It can be physically demanding and may involve long hours.

The average annual salary for an animal breeder, including bull semen collectors, is around $43,650.

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### 3. Crime Scene Cleaner

Crime scene cleaners work in challenging and hazardous conditions. They must be trained to use personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleaning agents to avoid exposure to bloodborne pathogens and infectious diseases.

Besides the physical demands, this job is emotionally taxing. Cleaners often encounter gruesome scenes that can cause psychological trauma or trigger anxiety and depression. They also need to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive situations with professionalism and compassion.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual salary for crime scene cleaners is approximately $43,900, though this can vary depending on location, experience, and company size.

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### 4. Medical Tester

Clinical trial testers participate in medical research studies to assess the safety and effectiveness of new treatments, drugs, or medical devices. Both healthy individuals and those with specific medical conditions may participate.

Testers follow study protocols involving blood tests, imaging scans, medication administration, or even surgeries to help evaluate the treatment’s impact on a broader population.

Despite the importance of this role, many hesitate to participate due to concerns over potential side effects from experimental treatments. Clinical trial testers usually do not receive a salary but may be compensated for their time and related expenses, such as travel or childcare. Compensation varies widely depending on the study’s duration and complexity, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

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### 5. Police Officer

Police officers are responsible for maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, and responding to emergencies. They work across various environments, including neighborhoods, highways, and specialized units like SWAT or detective divisions.

Though vital to society, the role involves physical danger, emotional stress, and long hours, which can deter many from pursuing this career. Recent incidents involving police brutality and racial profiling have also impacted public trust.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, police officers and detectives earn a median annual salary of $67,290, with benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans commonly provided. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and rank.

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### 6. Snake Milker

Snake milkers extract venom from snakes for medical and research purposes. This profession requires extensive knowledge of snake behavior and venom, along with specialized tools and techniques to safely collect venom.

Working with venomous snakes involves significant physical risks, including life-threatening bites, demanding high levels of skill and concentration.

In the United States, the average annual salary for snake milkers ranges between $30,000 and $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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### 7. Embalmer

Embalmers prepare deceased bodies for funeral services, burial, or cremation. Their tasks include cleaning, disinfecting, and replacing bodily fluids with embalming fluid, as well as setting facial features for a peaceful appearance. They also dress the body and apply makeup to enhance its look.

This job is emotionally and physically demanding. Embalmers often handle bodies from traumatic situations and must pay close attention to detail while managing delicate tissue.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for funeral service workers, which includes embalmers, is $56,900. Some embalmers earn over $80,000 per year.

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### 8. Sanitation Worker

Sanitation workers, also known as garbage collectors or waste management workers, are responsible for collecting and disposing of waste and recyclable materials. Their duties include operating garbage trucks, picking up bins, and ensuring proper waste disposal.

The job is physically demanding, often involving heavy lifting, unpleasant odors, and exposure to hazardous materials. Working conditions can be challenging, and hours may be irregular.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $38,990 for refuse and recyclable material collectors, with earnings up to $50,000 for those willing to get their hands dirty.

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### 9. Oil Rig Worker

Oil rig workers operate and maintain offshore oil rigs. Responsibilities include overseeing drilling equipment, regulating oil flow, handling material transfers, and ensuring safety compliance.

Working on oil rigs is hazardous, involving harsh conditions, high risk of accidents, and long periods away from home. Strict adherence to safety protocols and physical stamina are essential.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics cites a median annual salary of $51,590 for derrick operators, a type of oil rig worker. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and job responsibilities.

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### 10. Slaughterhouse Worker

Slaughterhouse workers slaughter animals and prepare them for meat processing. Their work involves using tools and machinery to stun, bleed, and dismember animals such as cows, pigs, and chickens.

This physically demanding job takes place in noisy, dirty environments with exposure to hazardous substances including blood, feces, and chemicals. Workers face injury risks from sharp tools and potential exposure to animal-borne diseases.

Due to these challenges, many hesitate to enter this field, resulting in a high turnover rate.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, slaughterers and meat packers have a median annual wage of $29,360. No formal education is required to start.

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### 11. Portable Toilet Cleaner

Portable toilet cleaners maintain and sanitize portable toilets found at outdoor events, construction sites, and other locations lacking traditional restroom facilities.

Their duties include emptying waste tanks, sanitizing surfaces, restocking supplies, and performing routine maintenance.

This job is often considered undesirable because it involves frequent handling of human waste and exposure to strong odors, making it physically and emotionally challenging.

Despite this, portable toilet cleaners provide an essential service, keeping public areas clean and sanitary.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median annual salary for janitors and cleaners, including portable toilet cleaners, at $28,110.

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### 12. Elevator Installer

Elevator installers install, repair, and maintain elevators and lifts in public and private buildings. They read blueprints, install components, and conduct routine maintenance.

This specialized job requires physical fitness and involves working at heights and in confined spaces. Due to its specialized nature and safety risks, there is a shortage of qualified installers.

Elevator installers typically complete a four-year apprenticeship. They earn a median annual wage of $84,990, with salaries varying by experience, location, and industry.

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### 13. Landfill Operator

Landfill operators manage and maintain waste disposal sites. Their duties include overseeing daily operations, coordinating with waste haulers, and supervising staff to ensure safe waste handling and prevent environmental hazards.

This role is often viewed as undesirable due to physical demands, exposure to unpleasant odors and hazardous materials, plus the stigma attached to waste management.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, landfill operators earn a median annual salary of $44,840.

Despite the challenges, they play a crucial role in waste management and environmental safety.

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### 14. Coal Miner

Coal miners extract coal from underground or surface mines using specialized equipment. The job involves strenuous physical activity and can lead to long-term health issues like lung disease and chronic back pain.

Additionally, declining demand for coal has limited job prospects.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $47,040 for mining occupations, including coal miners.

Despite risks and challenges, coal miners remain essential to the mining sector and energy production.

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### 15. Crab Fisherman

Crab fishermen catch crabs commercially by setting traps, baiting them, and retrieving the catch. The work is physically demanding, dangerous, and often seasonal.

It is considered among the most hazardous professions worldwide due to extreme weather conditions and the risk involved. Financial compensation often does not match the risks.

Nevertheless, crab fishermen supply crabs to the seafood industry, supporting processors, restaurants, and markets.

The median annual wage for fishermen and fishing workers, including crab fishermen, is $52,435, with top earners making between $52,435 and $132,077.

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These jobs may not be appealing for many due to their risks and challenges, but they offer impressive paychecks and remain vital to various industries. Whether it’s the health hazards, emotional strain, or physical demands, these professions remind us of the complex balance between risk and reward in the workforce.
https://radicalfire.com/undesirable-jobs/