Hurricane Melissa

Hurricane Melissa is causing strong winds and heavy rains across Haiti, the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, Cuba, and Jamaica. The hurricane is currently a category 5 storm and emergency evacuations are under way in vulnerable areas. The hurricane is expected to move through Jamaica on the morning of Tuesday 28^th October (local time), Cuba on Tuesday night, and then south-eastern Bahamas on Wednesday 29^th.

Jamaica’s two international airports have been closed.

Advice for New Zealanders

If you are travelling in an affected area, follow the advice of local authorities and emergency services at all times, including any evacuation orders. You can monitor local news and weather services for the latest developments. 

If your travel has been disrupted by the hurricane, please contact your airline or travel agent for more information and advice. 

Please let your family and friends in New Zealand know that you are safe when you're able to. To receive the latest updates and information from the New Zealand Government, register your travel with us on SafeTravel.  

For further advice on what to do during severe weather, read our natural disasters page.

New Zealanders who require urgent consular assistance can contact the 24/7 consular emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20.