SpaceX has activated free Starlink satellite internet service for people affected by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica and the Bahamas, providing critical communications support as the powerful Category 5 storm continues its path through the Atlantic.
Hurricane Melissa slammed into the Caribbean early this week with sustained winds expected to exceed 165 mph over the coming days. Communities in Jamaica and the Bahamas had spent days preparing for the storm, but early images and videos now show widespread destruction, severe flooding, and major infrastructure damage.
Satellite imagery shows Hurricane #Melissa's growth from its formation on October 21 to a Category 5 hurricane through October 27, 2025. #HurricaneMelissa pic.twitter.com/goR3Hbgb9c
— The Weather Network (@weathernetwork) October 27, 2025
Free Starlink Service Through November
SpaceX confirmed today that Starlink access will be free for impacted users in Jamaica and the Bahamas through the end of November. The announcement was made via the company’s official Starlink account on X, offering immediate support to residents who have lost access to traditional communication networks.
For those impacted by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica and the Bahamas, Starlink service is now free through the end of November to help with response and recovery efforts → https://t.co/fUko3xSviJ
— Starlink (@Starlink) October 28, 2025
This move mirrors a similar relief effort last year, when SpaceX provided free Starlink connections to communities in the United States affected by Hurricane Helene. That service remained available through the end of 2024.
A Pattern of Disaster Relief Support
Elon Musk–led companies have repeatedly stepped up in response to natural disasters:
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SpaceX has deployed Starlink kits to wildfire zones, war zones, and hurricane-hit regions.
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Tesla has enabled Free Supercharging during emergencies, including during major California wildfires and hurricanes in Florida and Texas.
These efforts help communities stay connected during emergencies when communications networks often fail.
Why Starlink Is Critical in Disasters
Starlink is especially useful in disaster zones because it connects directly to SpaceX satellites, requiring only power to operate — not ground-based fiber or cell towers that are easily damaged in storms.
Reliable internet access can be life-saving, helping residents:
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Contact emergency services
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Reach family members
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Receive government updates
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Access evacuation routes and relief information
As recovery efforts begin, Starlink is expected to play a crucial role in reconnecting communities cut off by Hurricane Melissa.