Humanity Unplugged

EP: 85 // Hurricane Melissa aftermath


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Hurricane Melissa has caused an estimated $6 billion to $7 billion in damages in Jamaica and between $48 billion and $52 billion across the Caribbean. These figures represent a significant hit to Jamaica's economy, equivalent to roughly 30% of its GDP. 

Jamaica

  • Total damage: Preliminary estimates place the total damage cost between $6 billion and $7 billion, or about 30% of the nation's GDP, according to the BBC News.
  • Insured losses: Insured losses in Jamaica are estimated to be between $2.2 billion and $4.2 billion.
  • Economic impact: The storm is expected to cause an 8% to 13% decline in the country's GDP as a result of the devastation. 

Caribbean Region

  • Total damage: The total estimated damages across the entire Caribbean are between $48 billion and $52 billion.
  • Economic factors: This figure encompasses both physical destruction and long-term financial losses, including those incurred by the tourism sector. 

Other factors

  • Insurance payouts: The Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF) announced a payout of $70.8 million to the government of Jamaica, the largest in its history.
  • Aid: The United States has pledged at least $11 million in support for relief efforts. 


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Humanity UnpluggedBy Jermaine McCrimmon