JamaicaAccording to the Jamaica Observer, Hurricane Melissa was one of the most destructive in the country's history. The powerful Category 5 storm struck Jamaica's southern coast, causing power outages, infrastructure damage, and the temporary closure of all three international airports—Norman Manley, Sangster, and Ian Fleming.
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett reported that the industry has suffered colossal losses: preliminary estimates indicate damages of up to $14 billion, which is nearly three-quarters of the country's annual GDP. Tourism, which accounts for approximately a third of Jamaica's economy, has come to a complete halt. Hotels have evacuated guests, and cruise ships have changed their itineraries.
The authorities have created a special coordination center to restore the sector. It includes representatives from the government, the tourism board, and private companies, including Sandals Resorts International. The main goal is to reopen the tourism industry by December 15, 2025, in time for the Christmas season.
Residents of the affected areas, particularly in Montego Bay and Negril, have begun a massive cleanup effort in the aftermath of the hurricane. Despite the devastation, authorities assure that Jamaica is poised for a rapid recovery thanks to international support and the resilience of its tourism infrastructure.
After devastating Jamaica, Hurricane Melissa headed toward the east coast of Cuba. According to Granma, authorities have ordered evacuations in coastal areas of the provinces of Santiago de Cuba and Guantanamo. Tourist resorts along the Caribbean coast are also at risk.
The Cuban Ministry of Tourism reported that several hotels and beach resorts have temporarily suspended operations. Tourists in the region have been relocated to safer areas. Preliminary estimates put the hurricane's damage at up to $5 billion, representing a significant blow to the country's economy.
Despite the threat, authorities assured that key tourist destinations such as Varadero and Havana remain safe. Recovery efforts will begin immediately after the storm passes. International partners, including France and Latin American countries, have already offered assistance in the aftermath.
Experts note that Hurricane Melissa presented a serious challenge to the Caribbean tourism industry, but also demonstrated countries' readiness to coordinate efforts and respond quickly.
JamaicaAccording to the Jamaica Observer, Hurricane Melissa was one of the most destructive in the country's history. The powerful Category 5 storm struck Jamaica's southern coast, causing power outages, infrastructure damage, and the temporary closure of all three international airports—Norman Manley, Sangster, and Ian Fleming.
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett reported that the industry has suffered colossal losses: preliminary estimates indicate damages of up to $14 billion, which is nearly three-quarters of the country's annual GDP. Tourism, which accounts for approximately a third of Jamaica's economy, has come to a complete halt. Hotels have evacuated guests, and cruise ships have changed their itineraries.
The authorities have created a special coordination center to restore the sector. It includes representatives from the government, the tourism board, and private companies, including Sandals Resorts International. The main goal is to reopen the tourism industry by December 15, 2025, in time for the Christmas season.
Residents of the affected areas, particularly in Montego Bay and Negril, have begun a massive cleanup effort in the aftermath of the hurricane. Despite the devastation, authorities assure that Jamaica is poised for a rapid recovery thanks to international support and the resilience of its tourism infrastructure.
After devastating Jamaica, Hurricane Melissa headed toward the east coast of Cuba. According to Granma, authorities have ordered evacuations in coastal areas of the provinces of Santiago de Cuba and Guantanamo. Tourist resorts along the Caribbean coast are also at risk.
The Cuban Ministry of Tourism reported that several hotels and beach resorts have temporarily suspended operations. Tourists in the region have been relocated to safer areas. Preliminary estimates put the hurricane's damage at up to $5 billion, representing a significant blow to the country's economy.
Despite the threat, authorities assured that key tourist destinations such as Varadero and Havana remain safe. Recovery efforts will begin immediately after the storm passes. International partners, including France and Latin American countries, have already offered assistance in the aftermath.
Experts note that Hurricane Melissa presented a serious challenge to the Caribbean tourism industry, but also demonstrated countries' readiness to coordinate efforts and respond quickly.