Hurricane Melissa has caused severe damage across Jamaica, hitting farmers and fishers who were still recovering from Hurricane Beryl last year.
The storm brought winds of up to 185 mph (298 kph) and storm surges that destroyed homes, boats, and crops. Officials say at least 19 people have died in Jamaica.
In the fishing community of White House, Prince Davis lost his boat and his family’s home. “It’s going to be very rough,” he said. “With the damage now, no one will be buying products.”
Farmers also suffered major losses. Denver Thorpe, who manages a local branch of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, said his 15 acres of mango trees and two greenhouses were destroyed. “There’s absolutely nothing,” he said.
Experts warn that tens of thousands of farmers and fishers now face hardship. Many rely on small-scale agriculture to feed their families and communities.
The World Food Program said food production losses in Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba could deepen hunger in the region, where millions already struggle with food insecurity.
The Jamaican government has disaster funds and insurance policies to help recovery, but small producers say aid often takes time to arrive.
Davis, hoping to return home soon, said he worries about how long it will take for life to return to normal. “Everyone is picking up the pieces,” he said.
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