The multi phase recovery plan is being hailed as a historic and comprehensive national effort. The initial stages focus on rehabilitating schools, small businesses, and key public institutions, with repair work already underway across several parishes.

In its later stages, the government aims to build climate resilient infrastructure designed to better withstand future storms and protect vulnerable communities.

Prime Minister Holness described the plan as a turning point for the nation’s future, emphasizing that the reconstruction effort will not only restore what was lost but also lay the foundation for a more sustainable and disaster-ready Jamaica.

According to early assessments, the total damage from Hurricane Melissa amounts to nearly one third of Jamaica’s GDP, underscoring the storm’s severe economic and social impact.

The slow moving storm, which has already claimed at least four lives in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, continues to unleash heavy rain and tropical storm strength winds across Jamaica’s eastern parishes. Meteorologists warn that Melissa’s slow pace could result in prolonged rainfall and widespread landslides, particularly in mountainous regions.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged residents to prioritize safety and follow evacuation orders immediately.

“We must take this storm seriously,” Holness said in a televised address. “Every life is precious, and every precaution counts. Please move to safe shelters and stay tuned to official updates.”

The Jamaica Defence Force and emergency agencies have been deployed to assist with evacuations and relief operations, while airports and seaports have suspended operations until conditions improve.

The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings for hurricane force winds, storm surges, and flash flooding expected to intensify through the night as Melissa moves west northwest at less than 10 mph.