This report is produced by OCHA in support of the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Jamaica. It covers the period from 10 to 13 July 2024. The next report will be issued based upon operational need.
HIGHLIGHTS
- The storm caused significant damage to shelters, infrastructure including water, electricity and health infrastructure, agriculture and other livelihoods such as fishing. The most affected parishes were reported to be St. Elizabeth, Clarendon, Manchester,
Westmoreland and Hanover, with impacts also reported in other parishes. Some 82 health facilities reported major damage. The Rural Agriculture Development Authority (RADA) estimates 45,000 farmers have been affected with the cost of damage estimated at US$15.9 million. - Many communities lack access to clean water as the piped water network remains non-functional for around 20 per cent of the population, relying instead on water trucking, bottled water, and stored water in tanks.
Approximately 60 per cent of the population is without electricity. - Some 180 people remain in 10 shelters after their homes were destroyed. The number of persons staying with host families is unknown. Vulnerable groups, such as women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, face heightened protection risks including gender-based violence (GBV). There is a need for psychosocial support for children and caregivers.
- Several country-wide assessments are being conducted by the government of Jamaica to assess damage and needs.
A country-wide initial damage assessment is being finalised by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the National Emergency Geographic Information System Team (NERGIST). The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) is finalising a Jamaica Household Damage Impact and Needs Assessment (JHDIANA), with support from WFP and OCHA/UNDAC. Furthermore, a Damage and Loss assessment is being prepared by the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ).
Hurricane Beryl, the earliest Category 5 Atlantic hurricane on record, impacted Jamaica on 3 July, causing widespread devastation. Approximately 160,000 people, including 37,000 children, are in need of humanitarian assistance (UNICEF).
The storm led to significant infrastructural damage, with 82 health facilities reporting major damage and an estimated 1.9 billion Jamaican dollars ($12 million) needed for repairs (PAHO). The agricultural sector has also been severely affected, resulting in food shortages and financial strain on families. The Rural Agriculture Development Authority (RADA) estimates 45,000 farmers have been affected with the cost of damage estimated at around $15.9 million.
Hurricane Beryl has caused extensive damage across several parts of Jamaica, notably impacting the southern coast, including Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth and on the western coast including Westmoreland, with significant damage to homes, crops and infrastructure. The northern areas, such as Hanover, Portland, Saint Ann, Saint Mary, and Trelawny, also suffered damage, impacting hospitals and health centers and disrupting livelihoods. Westmoreland and St. James faced severe agricultural losses, particularly affecting banana plantations and coconut farms. The hardest-hit areas in the south and north are grappling with disrupted services and significant needs for food, water, and medical supplies.