Canada has issued a serious warning advising Canadians to avoid travelling to Jamaica due to safety issues.
On Oct. 23, the government of Canada updated its travel advisory for Jamaica, warning people to “avoid non-essential travel.”
“Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to gain hurricane strength and may impact Jamaica on Oct. 25,” reads the statement. “The storm is likely to bring excessive rainfall and violent winds.”
A bulletin issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) states that a tropical storm warning is in effect for Jamaica, with “heavy rains and life-threatening flooding” expected through the weekend.
According to the travel advisory, the hurricane brings with it a risk of flash flooding and landslides, which could lead to the disruption of several essential services. Transportation, telecommunications networks, and power distribution could be affected. Possible disruptions could also affect water and food supply, emergency services, and access to medical care.
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However, for Canadians who are already in Jamaica, the government advises caution and to keep up with the latest local news and weather.
“Follow the instructions of local authorities,” states the advisory.
Anyone planning to travel to coastal areas in Jamaica despite the risk should be prepared to change their plans due to the weather and to make sure they have the emergency contact information of their airline and tour operator.
“You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane,” warns the statement. “You should carefully consider these risks when planning a trip during the hurricane season.
Hurricanes occur in the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico from early June until November, with small tropical storms possibly developing into major hurricanes.
Canadians travelling internationally can sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA), a free and confidential service that notifies citizens outside the country of an emergency abroad or a personal emergency at home.