PORTLAND, Jamaica — While the northeastern parish of Portland escaped the most severe impacts of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica over a week ago, local businesses are still grappling with the aftermath. Ricardo ‘Ric Boss’ Oharo, a chef at a local cookshop, shared his struggles with Observer Online during a visit by the news team on Friday. Oharo noted that business has slowed significantly since the hurricane, as many residents have been unable to work due to storm-related disruptions affecting their employers. This has led to reduced spending in the community. Additionally, Oharo highlighted the rising operational costs, particularly the increased price of fuel needed to power the shop’s generator. Despite these challenges, he emphasized that his establishment remains affordable for customers. Hurricane Melissa, which made landfall on October 28 as a Category 5 storm with winds reaching 185 mph, caused widespread devastation across Jamaica, resulting in over 30 fatalities and leaving nearly 80% of Jamaica Public Service (JPS) customers without power. Many areas in Portland remain in darkness. Oharo expressed gratitude that Portland was spared major damage this time, recalling the severe impact of Hurricane Beryl in July last year. ‘We give God thanks still,’ he said. ‘Everything is intact, giving thanks!’