Staying Online After the Storm

How Starlink is Powering Jamaica’s Connectivity

The winds have passed, but the challenges remain. Hurricane Melissa shook Jamaica to its core, leaving devastation in her wake. For many, access to electricity, water, and internet has been limited or completely cut off. In this moment, staying connected isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, coordination, and hope.

That’s where Starlink comes in.

What is Starlink?

Starlink is a satellite internet system developed by an American company called SpaceX. Unlike traditional internet that relies on underground cables or cell towers, Starlink delivers high-speed internet straight from space using thousands of low-earth orbit satellites. This means it can reach places that regular internet simply can’t—especially in rural, mountainous or storm-affected areas.

Starlink Comes to Jamaica

In the aftermath of Melissa, at least 600 Starlink systems arrived on our shores. Of those, 400 residential systems were given to government agencies and NGOs to support the recovery. Another 200 mobile Starlink units were donated by charities to help fill the gaps.

With many areas still without stable connectivity, Starlink is making a real difference—supporting rescue operations, enabling communication among displaced families, and helping recovery efforts across the island.

Why Starlink Works Well Now

• No need for local infrastructure – works even if landlines and cell towers are down

• Fast and reliable – advertised speeds of 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload

• Compact and easy to set up – just like setting up a regular Wi-Fi router

• Low power consumption – in many cases can be powered by a battery pack

• Currently free – Starlink has waived service fees for Jamaica during disaster relief

But Let’s Be Cautious

I know how desperate things feel. Connectivity is critical. But we must still take care. Just like how we’ve heard about looting and scams, there are also digital threats—people looking to take advantage of your online access in this vulnerable time.

Here are a few things you need to know:

Secure Your Starlink Connection

• If you or someone near you is setting up a Starlink:

  • Always change the default network name and add a strong password

  • Avoid leaving the network open to the public

  • Use guest mode or isolate clients if others are connecting

  Don’t Share Sensitive Info on Public Wi-FiDon’t Share Sensitive Info on Public Wi-Fi

• Many people are kindly offering free Starlink Wi-Fi in shelters and public spaces. That’s great—but:

  • Avoid logging into your bank account or email

  • Use a VPN if possible

  • Stick to basic browsing and messaging

Watch Out for Scams

• Don’t buy Starlink units from unverified sellers.

• If someone offers you one, verify that the hardware is legitimate and hasn’t been tampered with.

• Never enter your card information into a strange link or form.

Setting Up Your Starlink? Here’s What to Expect

• You’ll get the dish, router and cables (mounting hardware sold separately)

• You’ll need a smartphone and the Starlink app

• You must set it up outside, with a clear view of the sky (rooftop, car top, etc.)

• You’ll be asked to enter credit or debit card information, even though the service is currently free

• Service is month-to-month, no contract required, in Jamaica for nowff

There are two main models:

• Home version Gen 3: Ideal for stationary use

• Mini/mobile version: Can be installed on vehicles and great for remote or mobile teams

Remember: Rain, Trees and Dust Still Affect Performance

Starlink works best with a clear sky. That means heavy rain, cloud cover, dust or even trees can still cause drops in service. But when the sky clears, speeds are impressively fast—better than mobile data and sometimes as good as or better than cable internet.

A Word of Gratitude and a Word of Warning

I am deeply thankful for the role Starlink is playing in helping Jamaica recover. This technology is a blessing in a time of crisis.

But even blessings need boundaries. Be cautious. Be smart. Be secure. Let’s use this tool wisely—don’t let digital criminals use your desperation to their advantage.

Final Thoughts

For those in remote communities or still without traditional service, Starlink offers hope and help. For urban users with existing broadband, stick to what works for now.

Above all, stay safe, stay connected, and look out for each other.

Jamaica, we will rebuild. And we’ll do it together—one connection at a time.