Urgent Guidance for U.S. Travelers in Jamaica as Hurricane Melissa Disrupts Flights

Hurricane Melissa is impacting travel across Jamaica, and U.S. citizens should adjust plans accordingly. Expect long delays at airports and disruptions to flight schedules, especially around Montego Bay and Kingston. The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to check flight status before leaving for the airport to avoid crowding and unnecessary waits. Build flexibility into your itinerary and be ready to change plans as conditions shift. The recommendations below outline how to depart safely, how to move between cities if needed, and how to stay informed through official channels, including the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

What U.S. Travelers Should Know Right Now

• Delays and cancellations are likely as Hurricane Melissa continues to affect operations.
• Confirm your flight with your airline before heading to the airport.
• If you must travel by road, do so during daylight hours when visibility and access are better.
• Enroll in STEP to receive real time alerts from the U.S. Embassy in Kingston.

Montego Bay (MBJ): Status and Where to Check Updates

Sangster International Airport (MBJ) remains open, but schedules are fluid. Airlines are adjusting departures and arrivals as weather and staffing allow. Always verify your flight directly with your carrier before leaving your hotel. To reduce congestion, avoid going to MBJ unless your airline has confirmed that your flight is operating. Airport officials are posting timely notices on their official channels, which can help you track delays, cancellations, and gate changes.

Kingston (KIN): An Operational Alternative for Departures

Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston is open for commercial operations and can serve as a backup for travelers unable to depart from Montego Bay. If you plan to transfer from Montego Bay to Kingston, arrange private, reputable transportation and travel only during daylight hours. Road conditions may vary by corridor and can change quickly after heavy rain and high winds. Do not head to KIN without a confirmed flight; wait for written or app based confirmation from your airline to avoid crowding and wasted trips.

Getting Between Cities: Private Transport and Safety Tips

Private transfer services between Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Kingston are available, though travel times may be longer than usual. Use established providers arranged through your hotel or a trusted concierge. Keep your phone charged, carry water and snacks, and let your accommodation know your route and expected arrival time. If local authorities advise against non essential travel on certain roads, follow that guidance and delay departure until conditions improve.

Stay Informed with STEP and Local Updates

U.S. citizens in Jamaica should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP delivers security and safety updates from the U.S. Embassy in Kingston and helps consular staff contact you in an emergency. In addition to STEP, stay in touch with your hotel or resort. Many properties monitor airport status, local advisories, and utility service updates, and can assist with transportation, rebooking, or extended stays if your flight changes.

Key Local Emergency Contacts

Save these numbers on your phone and keep them accessible:

• Police: 119
• Fire and Ambulance: 110
• Hurricane Updates: 116
• Jamaica Red Cross: +1 876 984 7860

Monitor local news and follow instructions from Jamaican authorities and your accommodation. Adhering to curfews, road closures, and safety advisories is essential during storm recovery.

U.S. Embassy Kingston: Services and After-Hours Help

The U.S. Embassy in Kingston plans to resume normal consular services on Monday, November 3, including American Citizen Services (ACS) and visa appointments. If you already have an appointment, arrive as scheduled and allow extra time for any weather related screening or entry procedures. For urgent assistance outside normal hours, use the following contacts:

• From the U.S. or Canada (toll free): 1 888 407 4747
• From other locations: +1 202 501 4444
• Email for ACS inquiries: [email protected]

What to Expect in the Next Few Days

Operations at MBJ and KIN are active but fluid. Even as weather improves, crews may need time to reposition aircraft, reopen routes, and clear backlogs. Some flights may cancel or depart late. Ground transport could be limited in certain areas until roads are inspected and cleared. Keep your airline app notifications on, confirm airport transfers the day of travel, and stay reachable in case your carrier offers earlier or later options to move you out.

Practical Checklist Before You Depart

• Verify your flight in your airline app and get a written confirmation or rebooking.
• Enroll in STEP to receive embassy alerts while you are in Jamaica.
• Plan ground transport during daylight with a reputable provider and confirm the pick up window.
• Pack a go bag with passports, medications, chargers, snacks, water, and a printed copy of your itinerary.
• Coordinate with your hotel for updates, extended checkout, or help with transfers if your flight shifts.
• Keep emergency numbers handy and follow all local advisories.

The Bottom Line

Hurricane Melissa is causing intermittent closures, delays, and schedule changes across Jamaica, but both Montego Bay and Kingston airports remain operational. By confirming flights before leaving for the airport, traveling by road only in daylight, enrolling in STEP, and staying in touch with your airline and accommodation, you can navigate departures more smoothly. Conditions are evolving, and a flexible plan will help you make safe, timely decisions as operations stabilize.

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This article was written by Hunter and edited with AI Assistance