Hurricane Melissa Slams Jamaica: Airports Shut, Floods Loom, Tourists Stranded
- Rita Shipp
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
A ferocious Category 4 hurricane known as Hurricane Melissa is bearing down on Jamaica, forcing the closure of the island’s two main international airports and stranding hundreds of travellers — including tourists — as officials warn of life-threatening rains, landslides and widespread infrastructure damage.
Airports and Travel Chaos
Both of Jamaica’s key international gateways — Norman Manley International Airport (Kingston) and Sangster International Airport (Montego Bay) — are now officially closed. Norman Manley ceased operations late Saturday, and Sangster accommodated a few early Sunday flights before shutting at midday.
All other major airports across the island are grounded, and seaports have been shut as part of emergency precautions.
The result: hundreds of flight cancellations and a growing number of stranded travellers. Airlines such as Delta Air Lines have issued travel waivers covering affected dates, allowing passengers to rebook without penalty. Authorities are urging travellers to check directly with airlines for updates and rescheduling options.
Storm Strength & Threats
Melissa is rapidly intensifying — already a major Category 4 storm with sustained winds near 140 mph and the potential to strengthen further. The slow forward motion of this storm increases the risk of prolonged and severe impacts. Forecasters warn of catastrophic flooding, landslides, storm surge and destructive winds across Jamaica — particularly in southern and coastal zones. Rainfall totals of up to 40 inches are projected in some communities.
Evacuations & Shelter Activation
Mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for low-lying and coastal communities — especially in areas like Old Harbour Bay in St. Catherine. All emergency shelters are now activated; Jamaica authorities report hundreds of relief centres ready to receive evacuees. Residents are being strongly urged to relocate immediately to safer ground as the storm’s outer bands threaten to devastate key infrastructure.
Local Impact & Regional Risk
Though Jamaica is first in line, the wider Caribbean region — including Hispaniola and variably Cuba — is also threatened. Melissa’s rapid intensification highlights the growing vulnerability of Gulf and Caribbean communities to major storms. Infrastructure experts warn of longer-term risks: power outages, blocked roads, isolated communities and extended recovery periods.
What Travellers and Businesses Need to Know
Travellers in Jamaica should stay in close contact with their airlines and accommodation providers.
Tourists should ensure they have contingency plans: confirmation of travel waivers, alternate evacuation routes, emergency contact numbers.
Local businesses (especially tourism, hospitality, transport) must prepare for shutdowns, delayed supply chains and cancellations.
Media outlets (including regional news) should monitor statements from National Hurricane Center (NHC) and Jamaica’s meteorological and emergency agencies for updates.
For Jamaica — and nearby islands — the window for preparation is rapidly closing. With a powerful hurricane like Melissa unfolding its full force, the worst may still be ahead. As East Texas Banners readers, especially those with ties to the Gulf or Caribbean, this is a moment to stay alert. Keep your eyes on official forecasts, act now if you’re in vulnerable zones, and respect the severity of what could become a historic storm event.
For Jamaica, the fight isn’t over — and for the wider Caribbean, the danger zone is only widening. As East Texans who know all too well what a hurricane’s wrath can bring, we’re keeping a close eye on Melissa’s path and the communities now bracing for impact. Our thoughts are with those in its way, and our coverage will continue as this powerful storm unfolds.
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