WATCH: AI-generated video of Hurricane Melissa goes viral

Hurricane Melissa is causing death and destruction as the storm continues to batter the Caribbean.

Images and videos circulating online show widespread flooding, destroyed homes, and toppled trees, capturing the scale of the devastation.

A viral clip claiming to be of Melissa’s 'eye' is attracting millions of views on social media.

Primedia's Digital Content Editor Barbara Friedman explains that experts have confirmed the footage is AI-created fakery, as it is physically impossible to capture from a passenger plane. Official satellite images reveal a much messier and realistic storm structure.

She said authorities and meteorologists are urging the public to rely on verified sources like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 

Friedman noted that the incident highlighted how misinformation can spread rapidly during natural disasters, emphasising the need for careful verification before sharing content online.

"The takeaway for me is: is this true, is this real, is this AI? It is exhausting. It's a crazy world we're living in."

To listen to Friedman in conversation with CapeTalk's Clarence Ford, click the audio below: