Damage to the island’s agricultural sector resulting from the passage of Tropical Storm Rafael has been estimated at over $600 million.

The estimate was given by Agriculture Minister Floyd Green in parliament this afternoon.

He noted that Tropical Storm Rafael came at the worst time, as the ministry was leading the recovery following Hurricane Beryl in July.

Mr. Green said Rafael unleashed heavy rains that led to flooding, landslides, and waterlogging in several parishes including Manchester, Clarendon, St. Ann, St. Mary, St. Elizabeth, and Westmoreland.

Mr. Green said the ministry has accounted for approximately 5,000 farmers who suffered damage from Rafael.

He said farm roads also suffered major damage.

He added that with more rainfall expected across the island, teams from the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) will undertake further assessments before a comprehensive programme of response is outlined.

He noted further that extension officers have been deployed to provide support and advice to farmers on crop care in the rainy season to minimize losses.