Yes We Can Travel

Emergency Briefing: Hurricane Melissa & Jamaica - What Travelers Need to Know

β€’ Chris Thomas β€’ Season 4 β€’ Episode 18

In this special emergency episode of the Yes We Can Travel Podcast, host Chris Thomas, a professional travel advisor and founder of Yes We Can Travel, provides timely, factual, and compassionate updates about Hurricane Melissa and its impact on Jamaica and surrounding Caribbean islands.

As the powerful Category 4 hurricane brings heavy rains, flooding, and dangerous winds to Jamaica, Chris breaks down what travelers, families, and resort staff need to know right now β€” with calm, clear, and accurate information drawn from official sources such as the Jamaica Meteorological Service, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), and major resort partners.

You’ll hear:
 πŸŒͺ️ Current storm updates β€” what’s happening on the ground, confirmed airport closures (Montego Bay and Kingston), and the latest from local authorities.
🏨 Resort readiness β€” how leading hotels like Sandals, Beaches, Hyatt Ziva & Zilara, RIU, Couples, and NexusTours are activating hurricane protocols to protect guests and staff.
🧭 If you’re in Jamaica right now β€” step-by-step safety tips on sheltering in place, conserving power, and communicating safely with loved ones.
πŸ“… If you’re planning to travel soon β€” airline rebooking policies, resort storm-waiver programs, travel-insurance reminders, and how to stay updated on reopening timelines.
πŸ›« Airports and emergency info β€” verified details on Sangster International Airport (MBJ) and Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) closures, ODPEM hotlines, and U.S. Embassy advisories.

Chris also emphasizes what every traveler should remember during a crisis: property and plans can be replaced β€” lives cannot. This episode is a message of safety, empathy, and unity with the people of Jamaica and all who call the Caribbean home.

If you or your loved ones are currently in Jamaica, please follow all local emergency instructions and remain sheltered until officials give the all-clear. Travelers with upcoming trips should stay in close contact with their airlines, travel advisors, and resort partners for rebooking once operations safely resume.

πŸ™ Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic β€” and with the dedicated resort teams keeping guests safe through the storm.

➑️ For personalized rebooking assistance, updates, or post-storm travel planning, visit yeswecantravels.com.

 πŸŽ™οΈ Host: Chris Thomas
🌐 Yes We Can Travel β€” helping families, groups, and communities travel with purpose and peace of mind.

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