Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm as it approaches Jamaica and other parts of the Caribbean, according to CBS News. With maximum sustained winds exceeding 157 miles per hour and forecasts projecting up to one meter (about 40 inches) of rainfall in some areas, this powerful hurricane is expected to make landfall in Jamaica by late Monday or early Tuesday. The storm’s unusually slow pace — moving at just 7 kilometers (4 miles) per hour — means areas in its path could face extended periods of punishing conditions.
Tourism officials have activated emergency response protocols across the region, while airlines have canceled numerous flights and major airports announced closures. Travelers with imminent plans to visit Jamaica, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, or eastern Cuba should prepare for disruptions and consider rescheduling their trips as the region braces for what meteorologists are calling one of the most dangerous storms to threaten Jamaica in decades.
Hurricane Melissa Forces Airport Closures And Flight Cancellations
The Independent reports that Jamaica’s two major international gateways have announced closures due to the approaching hurricane. Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston closed on Sunday at 9 p.m., followed shortly by Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. Kingston airport officials warn: “Passengers, contact your airline for rebooking. DO NOT go to the airport.” Similarly, Montego Bay airport authorities advise: “When we reopen, confirm flight status with your airline BEFORE traveling.”
Several major airlines have suspended operations to affected areas. JetBlue has canceled several flights from Sunday through Tuesday to and from both Jamaican airports. American Airlines has canceled all flights to Kingston on Sunday and increased capacity on Saturday departures to help travelers leave before the shutdown. Air Canada has canceled at least seven flights between Saturday and Tuesday and added two extra flights on Saturday to assist passengers trying to depart before the storm. Southwest Airlines also canceled flights planned for Sunday.
Airline Rebooking Policies
Most major carriers have implemented flexible rebooking policies for travelers affected by Hurricane Melissa. Per Travel Pulse, Delta Air Lines has issued a change fee waiver for travel to Kingston and Montego Bay for flights scheduled initially through October 28, provided customers rebook on flights on or before October 31.
United Airlines is waiving change fees and fare differences for tickets purchased on or before October 23, with travel through October 29. Rebooked flights must depart by November 5 to qualify for the waiver. American Airlines is allowing passengers to change travel plans for Boscobel, Kingston, and Montego Bay through October 29 without penalties if their ticket was purchased by October 23. The original city pairs must remain the same, and rescheduled flights must depart by November 1.
JetBlue will waive change fees and fare differences for travel to Kingston and Montego Bay through October 28 (for tickets booked on or before October 23). Passengers must rebook their flights for travel through November 5 to be eligible. Southwest Airlines’ waiver applies to flights to Montego Bay through October 29. Rescheduled flights must occur within 14 days of the original travel date and maintain the original city pairs.
For British travelers, Virgin Atlantic has grounded Monday’s London Heathrow–Montego Bay flight and its corresponding inbound flight. A spokesperson for the airline said: “Due to adverse weather conditions expected to be caused by Hurricane Melissa some of our Jamaica flights are subject to cancellations and delays.” British Airways has postponed its London Gatwick-Kingston flight due out on Monday to Tuesday afternoon.
Hotel And Resort Operations
Jamaica’s tourism industry has implemented emergency procedures across the island. Many coastal resorts have temporarily suspended operations, with some relocating guests to inland shelters away from potential flooding and storm surges. The Ministry of Tourism has activated its Tourism Emergency Operations Centre (TEOC) to coordinate with national disaster agencies and industry partners.
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has stated that hotels, attractions, and transport operators have implemented internal protocols designed to protect guests and staff. “Our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to crises is what continues to set Jamaica apart as a world-class destination,” Bartlett said in a statement to the press.
Safety Guidance For Travelers During Hurricane Melissa
Authorities have urged everyone in Jamaica, including visitors, to take shelter immediately. The US National Hurricane Center has warned of “extensive infrastructure damage, long-duration power and communication outages, and isolation of communities” with the potential for life-threatening flash flooding, storm surges, and landslides.
“This extreme rainfall potential, owing to the slow motion, is going to create a catastrophic event here for Jamaica,” US National Hurricane Center Deputy Director Jamie Rhome said in a webcast briefing. “You need to just be wherever you’re going to be and be ready to ride this out for several days,” he added.
For travelers still in affected areas, Jamaica’s government has opened more than 650 shelters across the country. The Foreign Office has established a helpline for UK citizens in Jamaica who need support: 876-936-0700 (Option 2). Similarly, the US Embassy in Kingston is urging American citizens to “Shelter in place and contact your loved ones to let them know how you are doing.”
After passing over Jamaica, Melissa is forecast to head north and cross over eastern Cuba on Tuesday night while continuing to bring heavy rain and strong winds to Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Those with upcoming travel plans to the region should contact their airlines and accommodations directly for the most up-to-date information on cancellations and rebooking options.
