Jamaica is on high alert as Hurricane Melissa, a potentially devastating Category 4 storm, approaches the island. In a joint press conference held at the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) headquarters in New Kingston, key utility providers outlined their preparedness plans but cautioned that recovery efforts may involve rebuilding rather than simple restoration due to the storm’s projected intensity. JPS CEO Hugh Grant emphasized the unprecedented damage a direct hit could cause, stating, ‘It is likely to be a rebuild and not just a restoration.’
Grant revealed that JPS has secured additional equipment and personnel to address prolonged outages expected from the hurricane. Meanwhile, Flow Jamaica’s Vice President Stephen Price reported that 771 of 778 sites across the island were operational as of Saturday evening, with priority sites in densely populated areas maintaining 100% uptime. However, Price raised concerns about fuel theft from generators, urging the public to report suspicious activities to the police.
Digicel Jamaica CEO Stephen Murad called for patience as teams prepare to restore or rebuild damaged networks. Government officials, including Minister Matthew Samuda and Minister Daryl Vaz, praised the utility providers’ readiness while urging Jamaicans to stay indoors and unite in the face of the crisis. Vaz highlighted lessons learned from Hurricane Beryl, stressing the need for collective action as the island braces for a potentially direct hit. Another press conference is scheduled for Sunday noon to provide further updates.