How GIS, GeoAI & Geospatial Technologies can benefit companies in the Region

This map shows our early-stage impact model, highlighting how Hurricane Melissa has affected communities throughout Jamaica. We are continuously updating and refining this model as more data becomes available. Hurricane Melissa originated in the central Caribbean Sea and made landfall in Jamaica on October 28, 2025 as a Category 5 system. It brought sustained winds of up to 185 mph (298 kph), storm surges ranging from 4 to 13 feet (1.2 to 4 metres), and rainfall totals reaching up to 500 mm (20 inches) in several areas. The hurricane caused widespread flooding, landslides, and severe infrastructure damage across multiple parishes. Communities in the southern and eastern parts of the island were among the hardest hit, experiencing major disruptions to transportation, electricity, and communication networks. Since the passage of Hurricane Melissa, the Mona GeoInformatics Institute (MGI), an entity of The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus has been working tirelessly to map, analyze, and share geospatial data that supports disaster response and recovery. Through the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), MGI has been able to identify affected areas on a macro level, deduce the level of impact, and this information can guide emergency response teams toward communities most in need. Our GIS-driven models play a crucial role in coordinating aid and relief efforts, ensuring that food, shelter, clothing, and clean water reach those who need them most. MGI’s Executive Director, Mr. Luke Buchanan has outlined that “In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, it has become increasingly clear that current relief efforts are not fully leveraging the power of data and geospatial analysis. Too often, critical decisions are being made without access to real-time, location-based information or comprehensive data collection systems. This results in gaps in situational awareness, delayed responses, and challenges in tracking the effectiveness of aid distribution”. Buchanan went on to say “We therefore urge all relevant government agencies and relief partners to integrate geospatial data and mapping technologies more deeply into their operations. Doing so will not only enhance coordination and transparency but also ensure that resources reach the most affected communities more efficiently. MGI stands ready to support these efforts, offering technical expertise, mapping tools, and real-time data solutions to strengthen Jamaica’s resilience and response capacity.” At MGI, we remain committed to leveraging GIS technology to enhance national resilience and improve disaster preparedness. This commitment reflects our mission as part of The University of the West Indies, Mona, to apply research, innovation, and technology in service of our communities. For more information, contact us at:Phone: (876) 977-3161Email: info@monainformatixltd.com #MGI #HurricaneMelissa #DisasterRecovery #Resilience #TeamEffort #RebuildingTogether #UWI #Impact #Landslide #Flooding #Jamaica #Maps #GIS

Here are maps of Flood and Landslide Prone Areas in Jamaica, highlighting regions most vulnerable to these natural hazards. The maps also display the distribution of historical floods and landslides across the island, important insights for understanding where risks are greatest. At the Mona GeoInformatics Institute (MGI), we continue to use geospatial data and analysis to support disaster preparedness and resilience in Jamaica. These insights help communities, planners, and decision-makers to better anticipate and respond to extreme weather events. Stay informed. Know your risk zone. Take steps now to protect your home and your family. Visit MGI’s Natural Hazards Tracker: https://hazards-map.monagis.com/Contact us: info@monainformatixltd.comWebsite: www.monagis.com #MGITips #TrackingMelissa #TSMelissa #HurricaneSeason #Jamaica #FloodRisk #Landslides #MGI #DisasterPreparedness #GISforGood

HURRICANE SEASON PREPAREDNESS GUIDE Presented by the Mona GeoInformatics Institute (MGI) at The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Kingston 7, Jamaica W.I. Website: www.monagis.comEmail: info@monainformatixltd.comPhone: (876) 977-3161 / (876) 977-3162 The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30 each year. Preparation can make all the difference in protecting your home, family, and community. Here are key tips and checklists to help you get ready and stay safe before, during, and after a storm/hurricane. These tips apply to Jamaica and the wider Caribbean region. The Mona GeoInformatics Institute (MGI) is dedicated to providing you with accurate, timely, and practical information to enhance your hurricane preparedness and resilience. BEFORE THE STORM: PREPARE YOUR HOME AND SAFETY PREPARE FOR POSSIBLE POWER LOSS STOCK UP ON ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES PLAN AHEAD WITH YOUR FAMILY KNOW YOUR RISK & STAY INFORMED IF ADVISED TO EVACUATE: DO IT IMMEDIATELY PREVENTION & LONG-TERM SAFETY FINAL REMINDERS MAIN EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS FOR JAMAICA Category Contact Information General Emergencies Police, Fire, Ambulance: 119 Police (Non-Emergency) Kingston & St. Andrew: (876) 927-7681-9Other parishes: Check JCF directory Medical Emergencies / Hospitals Ambulance: 110 or (876) 926-0296 (St. John Ambulance)University Hospital of the West Indies: (876) 927-1620-9Kingston Public Hospital: (876) 922-0210-9 Fire Department Jamaica Fire Brigade: (876) 922-0007 / 922-0027 Utility Emergencies JPS (Electricity): 888-225-5577 (888-CALL-JPS)NWC (Water): 888-225-5692 (888-CALL-NWC)NWA (Roads): (876) 754-1900 Disaster Assistance ODPEM: (876) 906-9674-5 or 888-991-4262 Contact MGI:Email: info@monainformatixltd.comPhone: (876) 977-3161 / (876) 977-3162Web: www.monagis.com #HurricanePreparedness #MGIUpdates #StaySafeJamaica #DisasterReadiness #HurricaneSeason2025 #BePrepared #MGITips #MonaGIS #CaribbeanWeather #StormReady #CommunityResilience #HurricanesAndGIS #Flooding #LandSlides

The National Hurricane Center has identified Tropical Storm Melissa as the 13th named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. Here are a few important tips to keep in mind as you prepare for TS Melissa. Residents across the Caribbean, especially in #Jamaica and #Hispaniola should closely monitor Melissa’s forecast track in the coming days, as the storm is expected to strengthen. Some areas could see up to 25 cm of rain over the next few days. Track TS Melissa here: https://www.windy.com/-Hurricane-tracker/hurricanes?waves,14.413,-73.608,5 MGI’s Natural Hazards Tracker: https://hazards-map.monagis.com/ Stay tuned for more info from MGI.Web: www.monagis.comEmail: info@monainformatixltd.comPhone: (876) 977-3160-2Socials: @mgimona #MGITracksMelissa #TSMelissa #MGI #MonaGIS #TropicalStormMelissa #HurricaneSeason2025 #DisasterPreparedness #StaySafeCaribbean #JamaicaWeather #Hispaniola #StormWatch #MGIUpdates #WeatherAlert #Flooding #Landslides