Published on
October 26, 2025
The consequences of Hurricane Melissa Travel Impact In Jamaica have been massive. Hurricane Melissa, now a Category 4 storm with winds reaching 140 mph, is rapidly intensifying and could become a Category 5 hurricane by tonight. Positioned just 120 miles south-southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, the storm is moving westward at a slow 5 mph. The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued an urgent warning for residents and tourists in Jamaica to seek shelter immediately. As Hurricane Melissa strengthens, the storm’s impact on travel in Jamaica is expected to be catastrophic, bringing fierce winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread flash flooding, with conditions worsening on Monday night and Tuesday morning.
Hurricane Melissa Travel Impact In Jamaica And Surrounding Areas
The storm’s slow movement has already triggered severe rainfall in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, causing widespread flooding and landslides. At least three deaths have been reported in Haiti, and hundreds of people have been displaced across the affected regions. The storm’s slow movement means heavy rainfall will persist for several days, amplifying the risks for flash floods and mudslides.
Jamaica is at the center of the storm’s most dangerous effects. Authorities have issued a hurricane warning for Jamaica, with hurricane conditions expected by Monday. Southern Haiti and parts of Cuba are also under a hurricane watch.
Devastating Outcomes Of The Hurricane Melissa Travel Impact In Jamaica
In addition to fierce winds and heavy rainfall, the storm is expected to generate storm surges as high as 13 feet, especially in areas to the east of where the hurricane makes landfall. This surge, combined with large and destructive waves, poses a significant threat to coastal areas, making evacuation plans crucial.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness has urged residents and visitors in Jamaica to take all necessary precautions. He reminded them to secure their homes, clear any overhanging branches, and prepare for the worst. Those living in flood-prone areas are advised to evacuate if necessary.
Travel Disruptions and Safety Concerns for Tourists
Jamaica’s international airports have been forced to shut down in preparation for the storm. Norman Manley International Airport ceased operations after its last flight on Saturday evening, while Sangster International Airport plans to close at noon on Sunday. With these closures and the widespread destruction expected, travelers are strongly advised to reconsider their travel plans.
The NHC has warned of the possibility of isolated communities becoming inaccessible due to road damage and flooding. Tourists currently in Jamaica should stay in close contact with local authorities and monitor the situation closely.
Why the Slow Movement of Melissa Is So Alarming
One of the key factors making Hurricane Melissa especially dangerous is its slow speed. Similar to past hurricanes like Harvey and Dorian, a sluggish storm means heavy rainfall can accumulate over the same areas for days, leading to catastrophic flooding. The mountains in Haiti, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic amplify this threat, squeezing more moisture from the storm and creating intense torrents.
Jamaica’s steep terrain, combined with the hurricane’s slow movement, significantly increases the risk of mudslides. These conditions make the current storm far more dangerous than faster-moving storms like Hurricane Beryl, which passed Jamaica in 2024 but caused less damage.
Preparing for Melissa: What Tourists and Locals Need to Do
As the storm strengthens and moves closer, residents and visitors alike must prepare for the worst. Here are some essential steps to take:
Secure your home or accommodation: Check roofs, windows, and clear any potential obstructions, like overhanging branches. Use sandbags or plywood where necessary.
Evacuate if advised: If authorities order evacuations, do so immediately. Stay away from flood-prone areas and seek shelter in safer locations.
Stay informed: Keep an eye on government advisories from the Jamaican Meteorological Service and the NHC for updates on the storm’s progress.
What’s Next for Jamaica and the Caribbean
Jamaica faces the greatest threat from Melissa’s extreme winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surge. But other areas, including parts of Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba, will also experience significant impacts.
Rainfall totals of up to 40 inches are predicted for parts of southern Hispaniola and Jamaica, with local maxima reaching even higher amounts. This could result in severe flooding, widespread property damage, and further disruptions to tourism.
The government of Jamaica has already activated emergency measures to ensure that medical and emergency services are in place. All public hospitals have been in “emergency mode,” prioritizing critical care.
Hurricane Melissa Travel Impact In Jamaica: The Bigger Picture
This year, Hurricane Melissa’s explosive strengthening is a reminder of the increasing frequency of extreme rapid intensification in Atlantic hurricanes. As climate change accelerates due to fossil fuel emissions, storms like Melissa are expected to become more common, with warmer waters in the Caribbean fueling their power. Three out of the four Atlantic hurricanes this season—Erin, Gabrielle, and Humberto—underwent rapid intensification, showcasing an alarming trend for future hurricane seasons.
Conclusion: Travel Disruption and Safety First
The approach of Hurricane Melissa is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of Caribbean destinations to extreme weather events. With the storm’s severe impact, the tourism industry in Jamaica and nearby regions will experience disruptions for the foreseeable future.
Travelers are urged to avoid visiting these areas while Melissa continues to strengthen and make landfall. Those in the region should prioritize safety, stay updated with government advisories, and follow evacuation orders as necessary.
