10/29/2025
Notice Hurricane Melissa
Hurricane Melissa was located near 21.4°N, 75.6°W, moving northeast at 14 mph (22 km/h) with maximum sustained winds of 100 mph (155 km/h) and a central pressure of 974 mb. The hurricane has now moved offshore of eastern Cuba into the southwestern Atlantic, continuing to produce damaging winds, torrential rainfall, and dangerous coastal surge across eastern Cuba, the southeastern Bahamas, and Bermuda.
JAMAICA – SITUATION SUMMARY
Current Conditions
Cleanup operations are underway in Montego Bay and surrounding areas, with public works crews beginning to clear major roads.
• Movement across destination remains unsafe at present, as roads are largely inaccessible due to debris blockages and flooding.
Travel between Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios is particularly affected, with several sections of the North Coast Highway obstructed.
Impacts
• Rainfall: While rainfall has lessened in intensity, intermittent heavy showers continue. Total accumulations across Jamaica have reached 12–24 inches, with isolated 30-inch peaks in mountainous regions. Catastrophic flash flooding and landslides remain ongoing hazards, particularly in central and eastern areas.
• Wind & Damage: Sustained winds exceeding 80 mph in some parishes uprooted trees, damaged roofs, signage, and lighter structures. Debris is widespread throughout Montego Bay and the surrounding zones.
• Infrastructure: Extensive power outages persist across western and central Jamaica. Communication networks are gradually being restored. Water and fuel supply remain stable at most hotels.
Airports
• Sangster International Airport (MBJ – Montego Bay): Runway inspections are underway. Sangster International Airport (MBJ) has suffered extensive structural damage, according to preliminary reports. Affected areas include:
o Gates 1–5 roof
o Ticketing hall
o Immigration hall
o Gates on the eastern concourse
o External areas, including the car park (solar panels destroyed), Knutsford Express, and ground transportation zones.
• Operational Advisory: Flight operations remain suspended until final clearance. Guests should remain at their accommodation until official announcements are made by the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA).
HOLGUÍN, CUBA – SITUATION SUMMARY
Current Conditions
Hurricane Melissa moved offshore from eastern Cuba earlier today, leaving heavy rains and hurricane-force winds across Holguín, Las Tunas, Santiago de Cuba, and Granma.
Rainfall intensity is now gradually decreasing, but localized flooding and landslide risks persist, especially near rivers and low-lying communities.
Preliminary Reports from HolguIn
• Hotels: Preliminary assessments confirm that hotels in HolguIn did not suffer extensive structural damage. Reported issues are limited to decor, light structures, and vegetation damage (fallen palms and landscaping). All major properties remain intact, and cleanup and recovery work are ongoing.
• Airport: Frank País International Airport (HOG) remains temporarily closed. Recovery works are in progress, focusing on debris removal and lighting system checks. The airport is expected to reopen tomorrow (October 30), pending official confirmation from Cuban aviation authorities.
• Cayo Cruz: Reported minor impact only. Reopening is expected later today or by early tomorrow morning, as power and communication services are restored.
If you are booked to Jamaica or Cuba and scheduled to depart in the next few days please call us for further information.
Friends and Family Travel Team
416-855-4690
