St. Ann Fisherfolk Credit Early Preparations for Minimising Hurricane Melissa Impact

Fisherfolk across several communities in St. Ann have credited early and proactive preparations with helping to safeguard boats, equipment, and livelihoods ahead of Hurricane Melissa’s landfall on October 28.

While storms often devastate marine industries, disciplined pre-storm measures taken by these coastal communities helped avert total catastrophe.

Fisherman, Harold Bloomfield of White River—a coastal community bordering Ocho Rios and St. Mary—explained that while many fish pots at sea may have been lost, priority was placed on securing the boats to ensure their safety.

“We did what we could to protect the vessels. The boats were heavily prioritised in terms of safety, a decision that may have saved fishermen millions of dollars,” he told JIS News.

Similarly, fisherman, Michael Buttie of the Ocho Rios Fishing Village confirmed that all vessels were hauled ashore and securely stowed ahead of Hurricane Melissa’s arrival, pointing out that “we are still standing today because of the positive steps we took.”

He emphasised that prudent pre-storm decisions translated into tangible resilience on the ground, enabling crews to prioritise safety and conduct post-impact assessments without facing sweeping losses.

Meanwhile, Neville Brown, a fisherman from Salem, Runaway Bay, noted that although infrastructural damage to shops and the fishermen’s headquarters was substantial, boats and fishing gear—like in other coastal areas—were successfully protected.

“Fishing is a very important industry, and it’s important to have our fisherfolks up and running. We are not stubborn people or reckless in our behaviour, as some might want to believe. We take our role as fishermen and providers very seriously,” he stated.

The nationwide warning system and public advisories—bolstered by ongoing messages from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining—have consistently urged fisherfolk to prioritise asset protection and seek safe shelter when necessary.

Portfolio Minister, Hon. Floyd Green, has consistently underscored the importance of safeguarding livelihoods through preparedness.

In his public bulletins and official announcements, he has reiterated that protecting assets and avoiding harm remain essential—particularly for communities whose economies are rooted in fishing and coastal enterprise.

As officials continue to assess the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Mr. Green has stated that it remains premature to determine the full extent of the damage.

Nonetheless, he expresses cautious optimism, noting the absence of widespread reports of significant loss of life or critical assets, adding that “a clearer picture will emerge in the upcoming weeks.”

Stakeholders affirm that the immediate priorities remain the safeguarding of lives and livelihoods, conducting rapid post-hurricane assessments, and restoring fishing grounds where conditions permit.

The collective experience of St. Ann’s fisherfolk underscores how disciplined, pre-emptive action can significantly mitigate the harshest impacts of extreme weather events.

Officials continue to emphasise the importance of sustained community coordination, accessible relief mechanisms, and viable insurance options to bolster resilience against future storms. They note that long-term recovery will depend on continued collaboration among the Ministry, local councils, coast guard authorities, and fishing associations.

All parties continue to emphasise the importance of preparedness as a guiding model for other coastal communities confronting similar threats.