Story perspectives

Hurricane Melissa Wreaks Havoc in Jamaica: 67 Dead, $7 Billion Damage

11/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, devastated Jamaica, killing at least 67 people and causing about $7 billion in damages, the strongest storm in Jamaica's history.
Jamaica has built a multi-layered financial protection system since Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, including a $150 million catastrophe bond.
Experts say the model could benefit other nations.
Recovery efforts are ongoing.
Concerns persist about the sustainability of these instruments as climate change intensifies storms.

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Story summary

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, devastated Jamaica, killing at least 67 people and causing about $7 billion in damages, the strongest storm in Jamaica's history.
Jamaica has built a multi-layered financial protection system since Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, including a $150 million catastrophe bond.
Experts say the model could benefit other nations.
Recovery efforts are ongoing.
Concerns persist about the sustainability of these instruments as climate change intensifies storms.