What was the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica?

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, caused widespread destruction in Jamaica, reducing entire communities to rubble and causing damage equivalent to 28-32% of the country's GDP in 2023.

How are Jamaicans rebuilding their homes after Hurricane Melissa?

Rebuilding homes in Jamaica is a gradual process, as many low-income households build or commission their own homes through an informal housing sector. Humanitarian organizations are providing aid, such as roofing kits, to support the reconstruction efforts.

What is the risk of a food crisis in Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa?

The western part of Jamaica, the island's agricultural heartland, was severely impacted by the hurricane, with crops and the poultry industry heavily damaged. This raises the risk of a food crisis, which could lead to social unrest.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Jamaica Rebuilds After Devastating Category 5 Hurricane Melissa

Jamaica Rebuilds After Devastating Category 5 Hurricane Melissa

9 Nov

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Summary

Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm to hit Jamaica, destroyed entire communities
Damage to homes and infrastructure estimated at 28-32% of Jamaica's GDP in 2024
Rebuilding efforts hampered by lack of resources and climate resilience challenges

Jamaica Rebuilds After Devastating Category 5 Hurricane Melissa

In October 2024, Jamaica was struck by Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm to ever hit the island. The Category 5 hurricane made landfall on October 28th, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Entire communities were reduced to rubble, with the western part of the country, known as the "breadbasket," bearing the brunt of the devastation.

The hurricane's impact on Jamaica's economy has been catastrophic. Prime Minister Andrew Holness estimates the damage to homes and key infrastructure to be equivalent to 28 to 32 percent of the country's gross domestic product in 2023. This represents a staggering loss of between $6 billion to $7 billion, a conservative estimate. The short-term economic output is expected to decline by 8 to 13 percent.