Hurricane Melissa: Haiti severely hit by torrential rains and massive flooding 

With gusts exceeding 250 km/h and torrential rains, Hurricane Melissa devastated parts of the Caribbean at the end of October. In Haiti, 1.25 million people have been affected, according to the latest UN figures. Doctors of the World is mobilising its response. 

Doctors of the World has been active in Haiti since 1995, working to improve access to healthcare, promote sexual and reproductive health, and combat gender-based violence (GBV). Our humanitarian teams collaborate with partners and local organisations to meet the essential needs of communities affected by recurring crises. In February 2025, OCHA was already reporting that six million people, half of the population, were in need of humanitarian assistance.

Hurricane Melissa, among the most powerful ever recorded, caused flash floods and widespread inundations. In Haiti’s Grand Sud region and the West department, rivers such as La Digue and Rivière Grise overflowed, submerging neighbourhoods and homes, sweeping away farmland, and triggering massive mudslides. 

Many families have lost everything. The humanitarian situation is extremely concerning, and relief and clearing operations remain difficult due to limited resources and restricted access to the affected areas. 

“Our health staff are fully mobilised in the main reception centre, where the most affected people have found refuge. At the same time, our psychologists and facilitators are supporting adults and children, providing essential psychological assistance.” 

— Frédérique Chevalier, General Coordinator of Doctors of the World in Haiti, based in Petit-Goâve 

Doctors of the World’s emergency response: health, protection, and support for economic recovery 

In the face of this crisis, Doctors of the World is deploying an emergency response to meet the vital needs of affected communities: 

Access to healthcare and prevention of waterborne diseases 

Our mobile health teams are providing free medical consultations in the affected areas. At the same time, awareness sessions on waterborne diseases and good hygiene practices are being organised, along with the distribution of water filters and effervescent tablets to disinfect clear water and make it safe for consumption, ensuring access to drinking water. 

Psychological support for adults and children 

Doctors of the World is setting up a mental health support system, including the training of community agents, psychological consultations, and support groups. Artistic workshops are also offered to help children overcome their trauma. 

Protection against gender-based violence 

Medical care for survivors of gender-based violence is being integrated into the mobile clinics. In addition, awareness sessions and workshops on positive masculinity are being conducted to strengthen the protection of women and girls. 

Economic recovery for affected households 

To help families quickly regain autonomy, the most vulnerable households are receiving direct financial assistance to restart their livelihoods. 

Doctors of the World remains fully mobilised alongside Haitian communities to respond to the emergency, protect the most vulnerable, and support sustainable recovery after the devastating passage of Hurricane Melissa.