I can assure you, the Jamaican power lines were not designed for even a little wind. The lines were strung along poles with trees growing around and among them. No doubt our system is far more extensive and conplicated. I think my point was the attitudes of the people of Jamaica before, during and after the storm.
BTT
I have had to evacuate twice in past ten years...and a good thing both times. It isn't fun to be without power for three weeks with trees on the house.
The only intelligent attitude to have about a hurricane is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. You have to prepare long before you know where it's going. Like insurance, you have it hoping you never need it!