How Is Jamaica Preparing for the Impact of Hurricane Melissa?

The approach of Hurricane Melissa has left Jamaica in a state of heightened anxiety, with millions of locals and tourists preparing for the strongest storm of the year. As the hurricane nears the island, reports of frantic preparations, empty shops, and damaged properties are emerging, highlighting the storm's potential for catastrophic impacts.

Last updated: 04 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Hurricane Melissa, now deemed the most powerful storm of the year, is anticipated to make landfall in Jamaica shortly. Locals and tourists alike are bracing for severe weather conditions, including torrential rain, damaging winds, and life-threatening flash flooding. The National Hurricane Center has warned that catastrophic conditions are likely, particularly along the coast where vital infrastructure is at risk.

Key takeaways

Hurricane Melissa is the strongest storm recorded this year, affecting Jamaica and surrounding regions.
Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in high-risk areas, with thousands seeking refuge in shelters.
Many supermarkets are running low on supplies, as locals stockpile food and essentials.

Timeline: how we got here

The storm has been developing over the past week. Notable events leading up to the current situation include:

1 October 2023: Hurricane Melissa was identified and began to intensify as it approached the Caribbean.
2 October 2023: Emergency services in Jamaica began storm preparations, advising residents to secure homes.
3 October 2023: Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for areas at high risk of flooding and storm surges.
4 October 2023: The storm is expected to make landfall, with reports indicating severe weather conditions have already begun.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As of today, Hurricane Melissa is nearing Jamaica, with the National Hurricane Center issuing dire warnings about the storm's potential to cause widespread destruction. The situation is fluid, with real-time reports of power outages affecting over 200,000 residents and a growing number of emergency shelters being established.

What was already established

Prior to its approach, the storm was categorised as a major hurricane, with forecasts predicting sustained winds that could lead to catastrophic damage. Preparations across the island began several days ago, with residents advised to secure their homes and stockpile essential supplies.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK tourists currently in Jamaica, the situation is precarious. With flights cancelled and airports closed, many find themselves stranded. Reports of empty supermarkets indicate that local supplies are dwindling, raising concerns for both residents and visitors' safety and nourishment.

Businesses and jobs

Jamaica’s economy, heavily reliant on tourism, faces significant disruption due to the hurricane. Hotels and businesses are shuttered, with many staff members sent home as safety protocols are enacted. The storm's impact on infrastructure could have long-term implications for the tourism sector.

Policy and regulation

The Jamaican government has taken proactive steps by issuing mandatory evacuation orders for high-risk areas, closing schools, and coordinating emergency responses. This reflects an understanding of the storm's severity and the need to protect vulnerable populations.

Numbers that matter

Over 200,000 people are currently without electricity in Jamaica due to the storm.
Three storm-related deaths have already been reported in Jamaica, alongside four in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in at least seven high-risk areas.

Definitions and jargon buster

Hurricane: A severe tropical storm with strong winds and heavy rain.
Mandatory evacuation: An official order to leave an area due to imminent danger.
Flash flooding: Sudden and intense flooding that can occur within minutes of heavy rainfall.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Residents and tourists should remain vigilant as the storm approaches. Following local authority advice will be crucial, especially in the event of further evacuation orders. Supplies may be limited, so securing essentials as soon as possible is advisable.

Medium term (1–6 months)

The recovery phase will likely be lengthy, with rebuilding efforts necessary for damaged infrastructure. Tourists should stay informed about travel advisories and flight schedules as normalcy returns to the region.

Signals to watch

Updates from the National Hurricane Center on storm progression and intensity.
Local government announcements regarding evacuation orders and shelter availability.
Information on resuming flights and reopening of airports in Jamaica.

Practical guidance

Do

Follow local authorities' instructions regarding evacuation and safety measures.
Stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, and medications.
Secure property by boarding up windows and doors if possible.

Don’t

Do not ignore evacuation orders; safety should be the priority.
Avoid travelling unless necessary, as roads may become hazardous.
Do not underestimate the potential severity of the storm.

Checklist

Have an emergency kit ready with food, water, and first aid supplies.
Ensure you have a means of communication to receive updates.
Keep important documents in a waterproof container.
Identify a safe location in your home or a nearby shelter.
Stay informed about the storm’s progress and emergency services.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The full extent of Hurricane Melissa's impact remains uncertain, as the storm's trajectory and intensity could shift in the coming hours. Emergency services are closely monitoring the situation, but the unpredictability of hurricanes means that residents should be prepared for a range of outcomes.

Bottom line

As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, both locals and tourists must prioritise safety and heed official warnings. The potential for catastrophic damage underscores the need for careful preparation and adherence to evacuation orders. With many communities already affected, the response to the storm will require resilience and cooperation.

FAQs

What should tourists do during Hurricane Melissa?

Tourists should follow local authority advice, stock up on supplies, and stay informed about evacuation orders. It is crucial to prioritise safety during the storm.

How can residents prepare for Hurricane Melissa?

Residents should secure their homes, stockpile essential supplies, and identify safe locations to shelter in case of evacuation.

What is the expected impact of Hurricane Melissa?

Hurricane Melissa is expected to bring torrential rain, strong winds, and potential flash flooding, posing significant risks to life and property in Jamaica.