The World Bank, working alongside the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), estimates that Hurricane Melissa inflicted US$8.8 billion in physical damage when it tore through Jamaica on October 28 — a figure equal to 41% of the nation’s 2024 GDP and the most destructive hurricane in Jamaica’s recorded history.
The estimate comes from the Global Rapid Damage Estimation (GRADE) assessment, conducted immediately after the storm to quantify damage across the residential, non-residential, infrastructure, and agricultural sectors. The assessment captures only physical destruction; broader economic losses — such as lost productivity, business interruptions, and long-term social impacts — are expected to be substantially higher.
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A more detailed breakdown of damages and economic losses will follow, supported by the IDB and the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), under the leadership of Jamaica’s Planning Institute.
According to the preliminary GRADE results:
- 41% of losses were sustained by residential buildings
- 33% by infrastructure, including roads, bridges, utilities, and public works
- 21% by non-residential buildings, such as commercial and public facilities
- 5% by the agricultural sector, including livestock and farm infrastructure
While the agricultural sector shows comparatively lower direct physical damage, experts warn that economic losses will be severe, due to disrupted supply chains, damaged croplands, and lost livestock.
World Bank Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean, Susana Cordeiro Guerra, emphasized Jamaica’s resilience as the country prepares for a complex reconstruction phase.
“Jamaica will soon be advancing into the reconstruction phase following the impact of Melissa. The country’s resilience, strong leadership, and collective determination will guide the recovery and help rebuild lives and restore opportunity. The World Bank stands firmly with the Government and people of Jamaica as they transition from response to reconstruction.”
IDB Vice President for Countries and Regional Integration, Anabel González, echoed the call for a comprehensive and coordinated recovery effort.
“The scale of damage caused by Hurricane Melissa demands a fast, coordinated, and evidence-based response. The IDB is fully committed to supporting the Government of Jamaica, beginning with a clear understanding of Melissa’s impact, as the country moves from emergency response to reconstruction.”
Jamaica’s disaster risk financing system — which includes contingency funds, insurance mechanisms, and emergency financing facilities — has helped the country respond quickly. However, the unprecedented scale of losses means that significant international partnership and expanded support will be essential.
The GRADE assessment was conducted with financial support from the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR) and the Ministry of Finance of Japan, through the World Bank’s disaster risk management program.
