The World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank have estimated that Hurricane Melissa caused US$8.8 billion in physical damage in Jamaica, making it the most destructive hurricane in the nation’s history. This figure represents 41 percent of Jamaica’s 2024 GDP and reflects losses across homes, infrastructure, public buildings, and agriculture. The assessment, conducted through the Global Rapid Damage Estimation (GRADE) methodology, measures only physical destruction; broader economic losses are expected to be significantly higher.
These initial findings will guide a more comprehensive evaluation of damage and economic impact in partnership with the Planning Institute of Jamaica, the UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, and the IDB. The preliminary damage breakdown shows that residential buildings suffered the greatest impact, followed by major destruction to national infrastructure and non-residential buildings. Although agriculture accounted for the smallest share of physical damage, it is expected to face substantial economic setbacks due to disruptions in production and supply chains.
World Bank leadership emphasized Jamaica’s resilience and the importance of a strong, coordinated recovery strategy as the country transitions from emergency response to reconstruction. Both the World Bank and IDB have pledged full support, including financing, technical assistance, and long-term guidance to help rebuild damaged communities and strengthen climate resilience. Jamaica’s existing disaster risk financing systems have aided immediate response efforts, but the unprecedented scale of destruction requires expanded collaboration and investment.
The GRADE process, supported by the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery and Japan’s Ministry of Finance, provides a rapid, independent evaluation to help governments and partners understand the severity of disasters. The findings will play a critical role in shaping Jamaica’s recovery plans and ensuring reconstruction efforts are efficient, resilient, and inclusive.
