Jamaica is reeling from the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, with damages estimated to be equivalent to 30% of the nation’s GDP, according to a UN Development Programme (UNDP) official. Kishan Khoday, UNDP resident representative for the region, revealed during a video conference that initial assessments indicate the financial toll is expected to rise. The Category 5 storm, which struck last week, has left western Jamaica in ruins, generating nearly 5 million metric tonnes of debris. The human cost is equally staggering, with 32 confirmed fatalities and approximately 1.5 million people affected. In response, the UNDP has allocated $400,000 for immediate assessment and recovery efforts, while the UN World Food Programme is airlifting food supplies from Barbados to support over 6,000 households for a week. The scale of the disaster underscores the urgent need for international aid and long-term recovery strategies.
Hurricane Melissa causes damage in Jamaica equivalent to 30% of GDP: UN official
