Jamaica recovery efforts continue one year after Hurricane Melissa

Nearly one year after Category 5 Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica on October 28, 2025, the nation continues to face massive economic and structural recovery challenges. The storm is considered the most destructive in the country’s recorded history, with the World Bank estimating total damages and losses at approximately US$12.2 billion, or 56.7 per cent of Jamaica’s 2024 GDP.

In the education sector, officials report significant progress in rebuilding infrastructure. Of the 682 schools affected by the hurricane, 63 priority-one schools have been fully rebuilt, and 81 more are between 95% and 99% complete. Approximately J$9.2 billion (US$58 million) has been spent on school rehabilitation efforts.

Despite these advancements, residential recovery remains a critical issue. Residential buildings accounted for roughly 41 per cent of the physical damage. As of April 2026, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security had completed 113,565 household damage assessments, highlighting the long-term financial strain on homeowners facing repair costs and debt.