ODPEM

HURRICANE MELISSA: RESPONSE, RECOVERY & RESTORATION In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica continues its journey towards recovery and rebuilding. Through this series, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) will share updates on response and recovery initiatives, restoration activities, and the collective efforts of government agencies, local authorities, development partners, private-sector organisations, volunteers and communities working to rebuild lives and restore affected areas. From emergency assistance and community support to rehabilitation and long-term recovery, we will highlight the work being undertaken, recognise the contributions of those making a difference, and share progress as Jamaica moves forward. Tracking the Progress. Recognising the Efforts. Rebuilding Stronger. Follow the series as we document Jamaica’s ongoing recovery journey. Prepared People | Safer Communities | A Stronger Jamaica #HurricaneMelissa #JamaicaRecovery #ResponseRecoveryRestoration #ODPEM #JamaicaStrong #BuildBackBetter

Hurricane Melissa: Clarifying the Facts on Donations Commander Alvin Gayle, Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), addresses questions surrounding donations received in response to Hurricane Melissa, providing clarity on the contributions received, how they are managed and the accountability measures in place. Transparency and accountability remain essential as Jamaica continues its recovery and resilience-building efforts. Get the facts directly from the ODPEM Director General at the Post-Cabinet Press Briefing. 📹: @JISNews #HurricaneMelissa #JamaicaStrong #ODPEM #RecoveryAndResilience

Remembering Hurricane Melissa: From the ODPEM Archives Before, during and after Hurricane Melissa’s passage across Jamaica, members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), including the St. James Division and other divisions across the island, remained mobilized and actively engaged in preparedness, response and recovery efforts to help safeguard lives and communities. We recognize the dedication of our security forces, emergency responders and other personnel who worked tirelessly throughout this challenging period. Their continued presence and coordinated efforts highlight the importance of collaboration, readiness and commitment in protecting the public and strengthening Jamaica’s resilience in the face of disasters. 📹: @JamaicaConstab #HurricaneMelissa #ODPEMArchives #JCF #JamaicaPrepares #DisasterResponse

The Honourable Pearnel Charles Jr., MP, Joined the Darliston Community Action Fair! 🇯🇲 Yesterday, the Honourable Pearnel Charles Jr., MP, Minister of Labour and Social Security, joined residents at Enfield Primary and Infant School for the Darliston Community Action Fair. The initiative provided residents of Darliston and surrounding communities with access to essential services, information and support to aid in their hurricane recovery. Facilitated through the Technical Assistance Centre (TAC), a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) initiative, the fair brought together partners to offer free services, technical assistance and practical guidance to help affected residents rebuild stronger and Build Back Better. Through collaboration and community support, the initiative continues to advance recovery efforts and strengthen resilience among affected communities. #ODPEM #UNDP #Darliston #HurricaneRecovery #BuildBackBetter #ResilienceStartsAtHome

Remembering Hurricane Melissa: A Commitment to Resilience Today, October 28, 2026, the Meteorological Service of Jamaica commissioned its Doppler Radar in Coopers Hill, St. Andrew, marking a significant milestone in Jamaica’s efforts to strengthen weather monitoring, forecasting and early warning capabilities. The commissioning coincides with the first anniversary of Hurricane Melissa, underscoring the importance of investing in technology and strengthening national preparedness to protect lives and livelihoods. The day also featured the launch of Hurricane Melissa Chronicles, documenting an important chapter in Jamaica’s disaster management history and preserving the experiences and lessons emerging from the devastating hurricane. As Jamaica reflects on the impact of Hurricane Melissa, these milestones reinforce the importance of improved forecasting, timely warnings, effective emergency response and continued investment in disaster risk reduction. One year later, we remember, we learn, and we continue to build a more resilient Jamaica. 🇯🇲 #RememberingHurricaneMelissa #HurricaneMelissa #DisasterResilience #EarlyWarningSystems #JamaicaPrepares #ODPEM

Remembering Hurricane Melissa: From the ODPEM Archives On this day October 28, 2025 As Hurricane Melissa continued to pound Jamaica, St. Elizabeth experienced severe flooding and widespread damage. During a Tuesday evening news conference, The Honourable Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, described the devastation in the parish as extensive, with families trapped in their homes in Black River as rescue teams faced dangerous conditions while attempting to reach affected residents. Hurricane Melissa highlighted the devastating impact of extreme weather on our communities and the importance of coordinated emergency response efforts. We continue to stand in solidarity with affected families and honour the efforts of those working tirelessly to protect lives and provide assistance. 📹: @jamaicastar #HurricaneMelissa #ODPEMArchives #JamaicaPrepares #DisasterResponse #Resilience

The Roofing Master Class is a hit at the UNDP TAC! Residents from Darliston and surrounding communities are turning out in large numbers for the ongoing ODPEM/HEART Trust/NSTA Roofing Master Class at Enfield Primary and Infant School. Participants are gaining valuable knowledge and practical skills to strengthen their roofing and improve the resilience of their homes. #ODPEM #HEARTTrustNSTA #UNDP #DisasterResilience #ResilienceStartsAtHome

🔴 LIVE NOW: ODPEM Director General Commander Alvin Gayle is speaking at the Post-Cabinet Press Briefing at Jamaica House. 📺 Tune in for the latest updates and important information: youtube.com/live/qZpCdozGjTo… #ODPEM #PostCabinetBriefing #DisasterPreparedness

📍 WE ARE LIVE! The Darliston Community Action Fair is in full swing and ODPEM is on site! 🚨 If you need disaster preparedness advice, hurricane recovery tips, or just want to access to free services (health checks, legal aid, document applications), come see us NOW at the Enfield Primary and Infant School. We’re here until 3 PM. Don't miss out! #Darliston #ODPEM #LiveEvent #Westmoreland #Jamaica #CommunityFair

POST-CABINET PRESS BRIEFING | LIVE The Government of Jamaica is hosting its Post-Cabinet Press Briefing today, Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. from the Banquet Hall, Jamaica House. Hosted by Senator Dr. the Honourable Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth & Information, the briefing features updates from the Honourable Pearnel Charles Jr., Minister of Labour and Social Security; the Honourable Rhoda Moy Crawford, State Minister in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information; and Commander Alvin Gayle, Director General of ODPEM. 🔴 Watch LIVE: youtube.com/live/qZpCdozGjTo… #PostCabinetBriefing #GovernmentOfJamaica #Jamaica #ODPEM

Remembering Hurricane Melissa: From the ODPEM Archives 🇯🇲🌪️ On This Day: October 28, 2025 As Jamaica faced the threat and impacts of Hurricane Melissa, the Honourable Matthew Samuda, Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change, spoke with BBC News and BBC World Service about the country’s hurricane response. Emergency response teams were mobilised, and critical utilities, including water supply systems, were monitored. Jamaicans were urged to follow official bulletins and trusted news sources for accurate updates and guidance. Hurricane Melissa underscored the importance of preparedness, effective coordination and timely communication in protecting lives. As we reflect on this experience, we recognise the dedication of our emergency responders and reaffirm our commitment to building a safer, more resilient Jamaica. #HurricaneMelissa #ODPEMArchives #JamaicaPrepares #DisasterResponse

Remembering Hurricane Melissa: From the ODPEM Archives On this day October 28, 2025 As Hurricane Melissa made landfall in southwestern Jamaica, The Most Honourable Dr. Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP, Prime Minister of Jamaica, reassured Jamaicans that support and relief efforts would be mobilized to assist affected communities. In an update shared with CNN, the Prime Minister expressed solidarity with residents in the affected areas, while urging Jamaicans to exercise extreme caution and prioritize their personal safety and the safety of their families. #HurricaneMelissa #ODPEMArchives #JamaicaPrepares #DisasterResponse

ON THIS DAY: Remembering Hurricane Melissa- From the ODPEM Archives On this day October 27, 2025 As Hurricane Melissa intensified into a Category 5 hurricane, Jamaicans were urged to prepare for its potential landfall. 💬 What were you doing at this time to prepare yourself, your family, and your home for the approaching storm? Share your experiences in the comments! 👇🏾

REMEMBERING HURRICANE MELISSA: FROM THE ODPEM ARCHIVES On this day October 27, 2025 As Hurricane Melissa intensified ahead of its forecast landfall in Jamaica on October 28, 2025, the Government mobilized resources, while the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) coordinated national preparedness and emergency response efforts to protect lives and property. During a special press briefing at the ODPEM, Jamaicans were urged to remain vigilant, take the necessary precautions and prepare for the potential impacts of the approaching hurricane. As we revisit this critical moment in Jamaica’s history, we are reminded that early preparation, timely information and coordinated action are essential to reducing disaster risks and safeguarding lives. Preparedness saves lives. Stay ready, Jamaica! #HurricaneMelissa #ODPEMArchives #JamaicaPrepares #DisasterPreparedness #ODPEM

Remembering Hurricane Melissa – From the ODPEM Archives On this day, October 27, 2025 Senator the Honourable Dana Morris Dixon appeared on BBC News to share the Government’s plans and preparations as Hurricane Melissa continued to threaten Jamaica. As the island braced for the impact of Hurricane Melissa, the update highlighted the importance of preparedness, staying informed and prioritizing safety. #HurricaneMelissa #FromTheODPEMArchives #JamaicaPrepares #DisasterPreparedness #ODPEM

REMEMBERING HURRICANE MELISSA: FROM THE ODPEM ARCHIVES 📍 ON THIS DAY | OCTOBER 27, 2025 As Hurricane Melissa intensified from a Category 4 into a Category 5 hurricane, Prime Minister Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness addressed the nation, outlining the potential impacts of the storm and the Government’s measures to protect lives and property. With Jamaica facing the threat of destructive winds, heavy rainfall and flooding, Jamaicans were urged to take the necessary precautions, comply with evacuation orders and prioritise their safety. As we reflect on this critical moment in our nation’s history, we are reminded that preparedness, community support and collective action are essential to building a more disaster-resilient Jamaica. #HurricaneMelissa #FromTheODPEMArchives #JamaicaPrepares #DisasterPreparedness #ODPEM