Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 Hurricane on 28 October (local time), bringing heavy rain, violent wind and flooding. Transport and essential services including power, telecommunications, food, water, and medical and emergency services have been severely affected.
Jamaica's two international airports have been re-opened to commercial flights though delays and cancellations are likely.
If you are in Jamaica and you have been affected by the hurricane, you should monitor the local news and weather services, follow instructions of local authorities including evacuation orders, and contact your airline or travel agent for advice about disrupted travel.
You can read more about our advice for New Zealanders affected by severe weather on our natural disasters page.
There are more significant safety or security concerns than you would usually find in New Zealand because of violent crime, especially in Kingston and Montego Bay. New Zealanders in Jamaica should pay close attention to their security.
Other things that New Zealanders travelling or living in Jamaica should be aware of are:
New Zealanders travelling or living in Jamaica should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.
See below for detailed travel advice.
