AGP Executive Report

Hurricane Readiness: Liberty Caribbean says it’s fully prepared for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, pointing to lessons from Hurricane Melissa and new investments in network resilience and emergency response. Disaster Governance: Prime Minister Andrew Holness says Jamaica is strengthening ODPEM to evolve into a National Resilience Organisation, aimed at better anticipation, response, recovery and adaptation. Utility Resilience: Jamaica’s utility providers must submit business continuity plans to the Office of Utilities Regulation, with OUR also approving US$106 million in JPS parametric insurance for the 2026 season. Agriculture Recovery Funding: Opposition agriculture spokesman Dr Dayton Campbell is pushing for a permanent disaster recovery fund for farmers and fishers, so support is ready before the next storm hits. Air Quality Warning: NEPA reports Saharan dust has raised PM2.5 levels in parts of Kingston and St Andrew, urging vulnerable people to limit exposure. Food & Schools Advocacy: Caribbean youth and civil society are calling for a ban on ultra-processed food marketing in and around schools across several islands, including Jamaica. Tourism Transition: Jamaica unveiled its Tourism 3.0 strategy, aiming for sustainable growth and stronger community benefits. NEAW Focus: NEPA’s National Environmental Awareness Week runs June 1–8 under “Recover Stronger, Recover Greener,” with ecosystem solutions highlighted for post-disaster planning.

Hurricane Risk & Insurance: Swiss Re Institute says global uninsured natural-catastrophe losses jumped over 7% last year to $424 billion, with protection gaps rising as exposure and asset values grow. Climate-Linked Food Security: Jamaica Coffee Exporters Association president Dr. Norman Grant warns coffee could hit a 35-year low of 155,000 boxes, already costing farmers $1.5b, with extra losses from smaller box weights tied to adverse weather and infrastructure strain. Disaster Recovery Funding: Opposition agriculture and fisheries spokesman Dr Dayton Campbell urges a permanent Agricultural and Fisheries Disaster Recovery Fund so farmers and fisherfolk aren’t left waiting on ad hoc, post-disaster financing. Clean Energy for Fisheries: CRFM’s STAR-Fish project is scaling clean energy support across Caribbean fisheries, including renewable power and cold-chain upgrades, plus pathways for low-carbon certification. Coastal Resilience & Habitat: New York’s $15m Bayswater Point State Park plan highlights “living shoreline” restoration—native plantings, tidal marsh recovery, and eco-concrete breakwaters—to cut erosion and protect wildlife. Seafood Integrity: California authorities fined a Venice seafood business over unlawful, mislabeled “sustainable/traceable” sourcing—another reminder that ocean protection also depends on enforcement. Local Transport Costs: Jamaica’s public passenger fare increase is rolling out in phases, but commuters face confusion as some operators reportedly raised fares early, sparking calls for clearer policy and impact assessment.

Coastal Resilience Boost: New York’s Bayswater Point State Park is set to get a $15m “living shoreline” upgrade in Queens—adding native plants, restoring tidal marsh, tackling invasive species, and using breakwaters and eco-concrete tide pools to cut erosion and protect wildlife habitat. Hurricane Season Reality Check: With the Atlantic season underway, NOAA expects fewer named storms thanks to El Niño, but forecasters stress it only takes one hit—so preparedness plans still matter. AI Forecasting for Storm Safety: Reporting highlights how AI models are improving hurricane tracking and intensity calls, including faster, scenario-rich guidance that helped in past storms like Hurricane Melissa. Climate Risk & Insurance Costs: Coastal homeowners across the region may face higher insurance premiums as erosion, storm surge, and sea-level exposure raise risk. Disaster Prep on the Ground: Food For The Poor says it has been pre-positioning emergency supplies months ahead, citing lessons learned from Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.

Hurricane readiness and forecasting: As the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins, Jamaica’s utilities say they’re set to keep services running even if the Corporate Area is hit, while forecasters point to El Niño’s “quieter” outlook as a reason to prepare—not to relax. AI for safer storms: New reporting highlights how AI models helped predict Hurricane Melissa’s rapid intensification and Jamaica landfall earlier than traditional tools, boosting confidence for warnings. Community recovery and resilience: Sandals is pushing ahead with a $200m rebuild of Melissa-damaged resorts and is also backing Labour Day clean-ups and classroom/health facility upgrades. Marine pollution push: World Environment Day activities in Jamaica will spotlight Kingston Harbour cleanup efforts, including work that has kept millions of pounds of waste out of the harbour over five years. Climate risk reminder: A regional climatologist warns El Niño can mean both disrupted storm formation and worse drought—so the “below-normal” forecast still leaves room for one devastating storm.

Hurricane Season Prep: Jamaica is entering the Atlantic hurricane season (June 1–Nov 30) with NOAA forecasting a below-normal year thanks to El Niño, but warnings stress “one storm” can still be deadly—so residents are urged to review insurance, document belongings, and stay ready. Post-Melissa Recovery: Seven months after Hurricane Melissa, FOX Weather reports ongoing recovery needs, while communities in St Elizabeth rebuild with hurricane straps, zinc, and stronger roof fixings. Climate-Resilient Farming: Jamaica says a FAO-backed US$50m agriculture recovery and resilience programme will roll out fully in September, supporting farmers and fishers hit by Melissa with inputs, irrigation, financing, and climate-resilient tech. Food Supply Pressure: A BBC report flags a looming Caribbean shortage of Scotch bonnet peppers as extreme weather, disease, and pests strain Jamaica’s key supply chain. World Environment Day: Jamaica’s Kingston Harbour Cleanup Project will anchor World Environment Day activities, highlighting efforts to stop plastic and other solid waste from entering the harbour. Child Labour Risk: The Fi We Children Foundation calls for urgent action to prevent children being pushed into labour after Melissa, urging reintegration into school and stronger protection.

Hurricane Readiness & Forecasting: As the Atlantic hurricane season starts Monday, Jamaica is watching Saharan dust and El Niño signals while NOAA forecasts a below-normal season—yet officials stress “it only takes one,” and utility providers say they’re stockpiling and preparing for 2026. AI in Disaster Planning: New reporting highlights how AI is boosting hurricane forecasting speed and confidence, even as some models remain hard to “see inside.” Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Jamaica’s FAO-backed US$50m ADAPT Jamaica programme is set for full implementation in September to help farmers and fishers recover from Hurricane Melissa, with support for inputs, irrigation, and climate-resilient tech. Biodiversity Under Pressure: Calls are growing to strengthen protection of Jamaica’s national flower, lignum vitae, as harvesting and development are blamed for declines. Marine & Coastal Protection: Clean Harbours Jamaica’s push to protect waterways and coastlines continues, framing ocean care as a practical job for healthier communities. Community & Health: INDECOM urges a rethink of body-worn camera deployment to improve accountability, while Jamaica’s Fire Brigade raises bushfire readiness amid El Niño-linked risk.

Hurricane preparedness and climate risk: Jamaica is bracing for the 2026 Atlantic season (June 1–Nov. 30) as NOAA forecasts a below-normal year, but utilities and emergency planners stress that one major storm can still be devastating. Digicel, Flow Jamaica, JPS and NWC say they’re stockpiling equipment and boosting disaster readiness amid supply-chain strain and higher shipping costs. Farmers get pre-disaster protection: Jamaica is rolling out US$50 million in climate resilience support, including GK Weather Protect parametric insurance for 5,000 farmers, shifting from post-storm payouts to earlier risk protection after Hurricane Melissa. Bushfire readiness: With El Niño driving hotter, drier conditions, the Jamaica Fire Brigade has raised its bushfire readiness and is using a warning index with the Meteorological Service to target high-risk areas. Biodiversity under pressure: Calls are growing to strengthen protection for lignum vitae as the national flower faces decline from development and harvesting. Marine and waste focus: Clean Harbours Jamaica highlights ongoing work to protect waterways and coastlines from marine waste. Community green spaces: Volunteers refreshed a Spanish Town school playground, while another piece warns that Jamaica’s rapid development is leaving too few safe outdoor play spaces for children. Policy and accountability: Indecom is urging a rethink of body-worn camera deployment so cameras prioritize planned operations, especially where fatal shootings may occur.

Climate Risk & Farming: Jamaica is rolling out a $50-million hurricane-season protection push for 5,000 farmers, using GK Weather Protect parametric insurance to shift from post-disaster payouts to pre-disaster resilience as the 2026 Atlantic season starts June 1. Disaster Readiness: ODPEM says Jamaica’s disaster risk management system is “strong, coordinated and response capable,” stressing sustained readiness and lessons from Hurricane Melissa. Climate Financing: Minister Matthew Samuda warns climate funds like the Resilience Building Fund and catastrophe bonds are still not enough, calling for bigger, better mobilised financing to deliver Jamaica’s National Adaptation Plan. Hurricane Outlook: Regional climatologist Dr. Cédric Van Meerbeeck expects a quieter El Niño-driven season but warns of erratic impacts—intense rainfall, flash flooding, heat waves, and water stress risk. Storm Intensity Debate: Scientists are again floating the idea of a Category 6 as storms intensify, pointing to stronger hurricanes like Melissa. Infrastructure for Resilience: Jamaica’s engineering leadership is being urged as “a national necessity,” with climate-smart planning for tourism corridors, coastal works, irrigation, farm roads and water systems. Local Recovery & Waste: NSWMA staff are recognised for keeping sanitation running after Hurricane Melissa, highlighting the environmental health backbone of recovery. Policy & Institutions: NaRRA’s CEO appointment (effective June 1) signals a push to strengthen reconstruction and resilience architecture for a future-ready Jamaica.

Hurricane Preparedness & Insurance: Jamaica is getting a $50-million parametric insurance boost for 5,000 farmers via GK Weather Protect, shifting from post-disaster payouts to pre-disaster protection as the 2026 season starts June 1. Climate Outlook: Caribbean climatologist Dr. Cédric Van Meerbeeck says 2026 could be quieter but still erratic—fewer storms, yet higher risks of intense rainfall, flash flooding, prolonged heat, and water stress. Disaster Readiness: ODPEM says Jamaica’s disaster risk management system is “learning and strengthening,” while ODPEM and the National Disaster Risk Management Council stress sustained readiness beyond hurricanes. Climate Financing: Minister Matthew Samuda warns climate funds like the Resilience Building Fund and catastrophe bonds are not enough, calling for bigger, better mobilised climate financing to deliver Jamaica’s National Adaptation Plan. Water & Drought Planning: The Drought Management Committee is preparing for a “multi-hazard” year with alternating heavy rain and severe dryness, raising risks for agriculture, water shortages, and bush fires. Waste & Public Health: NSWMA long-service awards highlight sanitation workers’ role in keeping communities clean and healthy after Hurricane Melissa. Urban Resilience & Infrastructure: Kingston breaks ground on the US$25m SANA plaza and tower, framed as smarter, mixed-use development—while engineering leaders stress climate-smart infrastructure and stronger enforcement. Green Maritime Link: SSIT welcomed an LNG-powered container ship on a new trans-Pacific route that includes Kingston, positioning LNG shipping as a lower-emissions step for trade.

Hurricane Outlook: Caribbean climatologist Dr. Cédric Van Meerbeeck says 2026 may be quieter thanks to El Niño, but still “erratic” — fewer storms overall, yet higher risk of intense rainfall, flash flooding, prolonged heat and later-year water shortages, urging stronger water storage and drought preparedness. Disaster Readiness: ODPEM Director General Alvin Gayle says Jamaica’s disaster risk management system is strong and coordinated, with agencies learning and adapting after Beryl and Melissa, while Jamaica’s Met Service warns against complacency even if activity is forecast lower. Climate Financing: Minister Matthew Samuda told the National Disaster Risk Management Council that resilience funds and the catastrophe bond are vital but not enough, calling for bigger, better mobilised climate financing to deliver the National Adaptation Plan. Waste & Public Health: NSWMA honoured 157 long-serving sanitation workers after Hurricane Melissa, highlighting the role of solid waste management in protecting environmental cleanliness and health. Local Resilience Building: Jamaica’s Recover and Rebuild Jamaica Expo 2026 (MoBay, July 11–12) will connect homeowners, builders and financiers around affordable, climate-resilient construction solutions. Education for Sustainability: MassDEP Green Team Awards recognised environmental student leaders, with Jamaica’s wider region pushing climate action through schools. Water & Drought Planning: Jamaica’s Drought Management Committee is preparing for a “multi-hazard” year with alternating heavy rain and severe dryness, raising risks for bush fires, water shortages and agricultural stress.

Hurricane Readiness: Jamaica’s Meteorological Service is warning against complacency as a low-level jetstream brings strong winds and rough seas into the weekend, with gusts likely across southern parishes and offshore areas. Climate Outlook: Even with El Niño expected to temper the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, forecasters say the season could be quieter but still erratic—meaning intense rainfall, flash flooding, drought risk, and extreme heat remain on the table. Disaster Preparedness Reform: Prime Minister Holness says Hurricane Melissa exposed major gaps, with seven lessons driving upgrades to leadership, logistics, and ODPEM’s role—plus calls for community drill exercises because “a list in someone’s head is not a disaster plan.” Resilience Financing: Government plans to launch a Blue Green Fund within 12 months, targeting US$200m for resilience projects like shelters and school water storage, supported by the Green Climate Fund and partners. Local Heritage to Save: A petition is pushing to preserve and incorporate the seaside ruins of the Black River Courthouse after Hurricane Melissa, aiming to keep a key heritage landmark in future rebuilding plans. Agriculture & Food Security: The Ministry of Agriculture is gathering stakeholder input for a 10-year National Agricultural Development Plan focused on resilience, sustainability, and value chains. Water & Environment in Cities: Kingston Creative launched three public art mural open calls, including one “Nature in Action” featuring rain gardens and bioswales to support green infrastructure.

Disaster Risk Financing: Jamaica is set to get fresh hurricane insurance after the World Bank placed a US$200m catastrophe bond, replacing a US$150m deal that paid out following Hurricane Melissa—part of a push to strengthen fiscal resilience and speed recovery. National Resilience Governance: The NaRRA Bill has been assented into law, creating the legal backbone for Jamaica’s accelerated reconstruction and resilience programme after Melissa. Hurricane Preparedness Push: PM Holness warned that “a list in someone’s head is not a disaster plan,” urging community drill exercises ahead of the season, while acknowledging Melissa exposed major preparedness gaps. Climate Outlook: Regional forecasters say the Atlantic season may be quieter but erratic, with fewer storms yet higher risks of intense rain, flooding, drought and extreme heat—so water storage and drought planning must improve. Blue-Green Funding Plan: Government says it will launch a Blue Green Fund within 12 months, targeting US$200m to finance resilience projects like shelters and school water storage, with support from the Green Climate Fund and partners. Weather Alerts: Strong winds and rough seas are expected into the weekend, with fishers and small craft operators urged to take extra caution. Green Public Art & Nature: Kingston Creative launched three mural open calls, including “Nature in Action,” featuring rain gardens and bioswales—turning public art into green infrastructure.

Disaster Risk Financing: Jamaica secured a US$200m World Bank catastrophe bond to insure against major hurricanes, replacing the US$150m post-Melissa payout and boosting investor participation to 25—aimed at faster recovery and less strain on public finances. Rebuilding Governance: The National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA) Bill has been assented into law, and PM Holness appointed Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson as NaRRA CEO to accelerate post-Hurricane Melissa reconstruction with transparency and accountability. Weather Watch: Strong winds and rough seas are expected to persist into the weekend, with southern parishes and offshore areas hit hardest—fisheries and small craft operators are urged to take extra caution. Climate Outlook & Preparedness: Regional partners met in the Bahamas for the 2026 Wet & Hurricane Season Caribbean Climate Outlook, stressing that timely climate information is essential public safety infrastructure for sectors like water, health, agriculture, and disaster management. Public Art for Green Infrastructure: Kingston Creative launched three mural open calls, including “Nature in Action,” featuring rain gardens and bioswales—turning public art into visible climate-smart design. Community Heritage Against Pollution: An art project, Stigma Damages, is building a counter-archive using found objects, poetry, and video to challenge “sanitized” industrial narratives and highlight polluted “sacrifice zones.” Food Security Debate: A new op-ed argues the “imported chicken is cheaper” story doesn’t hold up when comparing like-for-like, pointing to how local production supports stability in food access.

Disaster Risk Finance: Jamaica secured a new US$200m World Bank catastrophe bond to insure against hurricanes, replacing the prior US$150m cover that paid out after Hurricane Melissa—part of a broader push to strengthen disaster resilience and speed recovery. Reconstruction Governance: The National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA) Bill was assented into law, and PM Holness appointed Ambassador Major General Antony Anderson as NaRRA CEO to accelerate post-Melissa rebuilding with transparency and accountability. Climate Preparedness: Forecasters are predicting a below-average Atlantic hurricane season tied to El Niño, but warnings stress “it only takes one,” with warmer oceans still capable of driving intense storms. Water & Sanitation: Rotary’s Haiti HANWASH initiative won a Rotary Foundation Programmes of Scale grant to expand safe water access in rural and urban communities. Local Environment Works: Labour Day projects across Kingston and St. Mary focused on water availability, drainage fixes, sanitation upgrades, tree planting, and clean-ups—linking community spaces to Agenda 2063 goals. Agro-park Accountability: Jamaica is tightening agro-park leases by requiring leaseholders to prove financial capacity and commercial farming plans, with more underutilised acres set to be reclaimed. Health & Environment Link: A Jamaica-focused regional push on healthy food policy highlights how diet, trade, food insecurity, and climate vulnerability are driving non-communicable disease risks.

Hurricane Watch: NOAA and other forecasters say the Atlantic season starting June 1 should be below average—8 to 14 named storms, 3 to 6 hurricanes, and 1 to 3 major storms—linked to an expected El Niño, but officials warn “it just takes one” as warmer oceans can still fuel rapid intensification. Central Banking: The Bank of Jamaica held its policy rate at 5.5%, while warning inflation risks could push above target in coming quarters if oil and regional shocks persist. Labour Day Recovery & Community Care: From Trelawny’s support for a displaced police family to mental health help at Lambs River’s JASW hub, and hospital refurbishments at Kingston Public Hospital, the island’s recovery work stayed front and centre. Agriculture & Accountability: Government tightened agro-park lease rules, requiring proof of commercial farming capacity, with more land set to be reclaimed if it stays idle. Local Business & Growth: Salada Foods reported stronger half-year results after Hurricane Melissa, and Fujitsu pitched AI to cut Jamaica’s permitting and reconstruction bottlenecks.

Hurricane prep goes practical: Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged Jamaicans to use Labour Day to inspect homes and communities now—prune risky trees, clear drains and culverts, check generators, roofs, and emergency supplies—warning against waiting until a storm threat and against pruning in dangerous weather. Cement supply steadies (but the worry isn’t gone): The Incorporated Masterbuilders Association of Jamaica says cement availability is improving after government and Caribbean Cement interventions, but it’s still pressing for a clear plan to keep supply stable. Police accountability push: Holness charged the JCF to review protocols for helping injured people and handling the deceased, while reiterating the full rollout of police camera systems. Health and recovery support: NCB Foundation upgraded the Kingston Public Hospital Eye Clinic with $3m in Labour Day works, and recovery continues at Lethe Primary after Hurricane Melissa flooding. Community resilience: Labour Day projects also restored the Lewis Town Early Childhood Institution in St. Elizabeth, with volunteers and agencies pitching in.