Télécoms Sans Frontières arrived in Jamaica last week and is working to restore emergency communications. Jamaica is facing widespread devastation following Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that struck the island on October 28th with winds of up to 280 km/h, making it the most powerful hurricane in the country’s recorded history.
The storm, combined with landslides and severe flooding, has caused at least 28 fatalities, destroyed homes, and disrupted critical infrastructure across western Jamaica.
In response, Télécoms Sans Frontières (TSF), deployed rapidly to provide emergency communications support to affected communities and relief organisations. TSF arrived in Jamaica on October 31st, just three days after the hurricane made landfall, bringing essential equipment to restore connectivity and support disaster response efforts.
Bridging communication gaps
The destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica left many communities isolated, with power and telecom networks severely impacted. Residents struggled to reach emergency services or contact family members, while humanitarian teams faced challenges in coordinating relief operations.
TSF’s deployment aims to restore communications during emergencies, allowing both first responders and affected communities to stay connected.
“Communication saves lives in disasters,” said a TSF spokesperson. “Our teams ensure that people can access information, request assistance, and reconnect with loved ones when traditional networks fail.”
Working alongside the Jamaican Red Cross and other local humanitarian organisations, TSF has established temporary emergency communication hubs, providing vital connectivity for coordination centres. This effort allows relief teams to manage logistics, track resources, and maintain communication channels in affected regions.
Collaboration and regional humanitarian networks
TSF’s swift response was enabled by its integration into regional disaster response networks. The organisation has developed strong partnerships through capacity-sharing projects, joint emergency exercises, and ongoing initiatives to improve internet and communications resilience in disaster-prone areas.
Lessons from the field
Early assessments from TSF teams highlight that western Jamaica experienced the heaviest damage. Landslides and flooding complicated relief efforts, while homes, roads, hospitals, and schools were destroyed. TSF’s work has been essential in helping both local authorities and humanitarian agencies coordinate disaster relief effectively.
Beyond logistical support, TSF’s communication services provide a psychological lifeline for residents. Restoring connectivity reduces fear and uncertainty, offering reassurance to families separated by the hurricane’s impact.
Strengthening disaster preparedness through tech
As Jamaica moves into recovery, TSF continues to support emergency communications alongside humanitarian partners.
“This disaster shows the vital role of connectivity during crises,” said the TSF spokesperson. “We are committed to supporting Jamaica not only in the immediate aftermath but also in rebuilding stronger, more resilient networks for the future.”
TSF’s work illustrates how in modern disaster management, emergency connectivity is not a luxury – it is a critical lifeline.
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