Hurricane Melissa and Its Impact on Belmont Academy, Jamaica

Hurricane Melissa, a powerful Category 5 storm, struck western Jamaica in October 2025, leaving widespread destruction across communities and critical infrastructure. The hurricane caused severe damage to educational institutions, including Belmont Academy in Bluefields, Westmoreland, where the impact significantly disrupted teaching and learning.

At Belmont Academy, the storm damaged key facilities across the campus, including roofs, windows, doors, and multiple academic spaces such as science laboratories, the auditorium, and staff areas. Essential resources were also lost, including computers, library materials, engineering equipment, and water storage systems, further affecting the school’s ability to operate effectively.

Damages to roof an several classrooms

In the months following the hurricane, the school continued to function under challenging conditions, including limited infrastructure and delayed repairs. Recovery efforts have relied heavily on partnerships, donations, and community support, as Belmont Academy works to rebuild and restore a stable learning environment for its students.

Despite these challenges, the resilience of the Belmont Academy community has remained evident, with educators, students, alumni, and partners coming together to ensure continuity in education and support the long-term recovery of the institution.

Sources
https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/2026/02/10/jn-money-supports-belmont-academy-recovery-months-hurricane-melissa/

https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20260214/belmont-academy-gets-support-sustain-learning-after-hurricane-melissa