Hurricane prep underway in Jamaica, but sector still lacks full resilience

As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season intensifies, Jamaica’s banana industry is once again on high alert. On July 8, a new local media report highlighted this season’s storm predictions, sector readiness, and expected heat and rainfall patterns for the June to November period.

Farmers impacted by Hurricane Beryl in 2024 are taking early precautions ahead of the 2025 hurricane season, including clearing drains and trimming trees. However, protection remains limited, especially for exposed crops like bananas and plantains. The Category 4 storm previously destroyed 74% of the island’s production, causing an estimated J$2.4 billion in losses and triggering widespread shortages.

Processing facilities continue to recover, with some reporting sharp declines in supply volumes. Importing bananas is being considered as a backup, but reliance on local farmers remains essential. Some larger farms have implemented structural reinforcements, cold storage solutions, and windbreaks to improve resilience and manage potential post-storm surpluses.

Sector-wide recovery efforts include crop rehabilitation, fertilisation, and pest control. Authorities are promoting disaster preparedness through training and infrastructure maintenance. Yet, challenges such as labour shortages and low participation in the Catastrophe Fund persist, limiting support for many affected growers.

While recovery is ongoing, the sector is cautiously preparing for what may come next.

source: jamaicaobserver.com

photo: disasterphilanthropy.org