By Jamaica Homes News – October 30, 2025
Hurricane Melissa Exposes Jamaica’s Fragile Infrastructure
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which tore across Jamaica with sustained winds of up to 185 mph, communities across the island are facing widespread destruction. Roads remain blocked, power lines downed, and many residents cut off from essential communication networks.
Appearing live on CNN’s Isa Soares Tonight, Jamaican real estate and construction expert Dean Jones described the storm as “a scene out of The Perfect Storm” and shared his professional assessment of the country’s recovery challenges.
“As a Chartered Construction Manager, Surveyor, Project Manager, and Realtor, I knew the damage a storm like this could bring to a developing country like Jamaica,” Jones told CNN. “We need to build smarter, plan strategically, and ensure our infrastructure can withstand what’s coming.”
A Call for Legal Reform and Resilient Rebuilding
Since the hurricane, Jones has continued to share Jamaica’s story with global audiences through interviews on BBC World News, BBC News Live, and LBC Radio, offering insights into how construction, real estate, and social resilience intersect during crises.
He emphasized that building resilience must now be a national priority, starting with stronger building regulations.
“Hurricane straps must become a legal requirement across all new construction and major renovations,” Jones said. “These simple yet vital fixtures can dramatically reduce roof loss and structural failure during extreme weather. Jamaica’s building codes must evolve to make resilience a standard, not an option.”
Jones also noted that resilience goes beyond physical structures, highlighting that many communication networks failed after the storm, leaving residents unable to reach loved ones.
“It’s not the same everywhere in Jamaica, but too many communities lose connectivity when it matters most,” he explained. “People need to be able to access information, buy credit, call for help — and stay connected. True resilience includes both physical and digital infrastructure.”
The Cost of Uninsured Losses
A large percentage of Jamaicans, including returning residents, remain uninsured due to high premiums — often 10 to 15 times more expensive than in the UK. For many, rebuilding will rely on savings, family support, and sheer determination.
Jones urged both government and private sector stakeholders to develop affordable insurance and housing solutions, noting that post-disaster recovery cannot depend solely on individual resilience.
An Opportunity to Build Back Smarter
Despite the devastation, Jones remains optimistic that Hurricane Melissa can serve as a turning point for Jamaica’s development strategy.
“This is a huge blow to the economy,” he said, “but it’s also an opportunity to learn and do better — to invest in smarter planning, sustainable design, and infrastructure that truly protects lives and livelihoods.”
As the country begins its long recovery, voices like Dean Jones’s highlight the importance of coupling engineering standards with social equity — ensuring that every Jamaican, from Kingston to Black River, has a safer and stronger future.
Media Coverage
🎥 Watch Dean Jones on CNN – Isa Soares Tonight
🎙️ BBC World News Interview
📺 BBC News Live Segment
🎧 LBC Radio Interview
📞 For media inquiries or professional consultations, contact:
Dean Jones
Chartered Construction Manager | Project Manager | Surveyor | Realtor
📱 +1 (876) 418-2524