THE world’s most powerful storm this year is due to hit Jamaica today, with winds up to 175mph.
Hurricane Melissa, which has been upgraded to category five (the highest strength level), is heading to a Caribbean destination, with three people confirmed dead so far.
As a result of the hurricane, Jamaica is experiencing flash flooding, with landslides and a rapid four metre increase in the sea level also expected.
All airports on the island have been closed and thousands of residents have been left without power.
So here is everything you need to know if you have plans to travel to the island.
Is it safe to travel to Jamaica?
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) currently has a warning about Hurricane Melissa on its website, stating that it is expecting to make landfall today.
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However, it has not warned against non-essential travel.
It adds that the Jamaican government has already closed its international airports until further notice and that travellers should monitor updates from local authorities.
The FCDO states: “Please continue to monitor local and international weather updates, including from the Meteorological Service for Jamaica and the US National Hurricane Centre, and follow the guidance of local authorities, especially in the event of any evacuation orders.
“The Jamaican Government has published a list of available hurricane shelters in advance of anticipated landfall.”
The FCDO also has two helplines that British nationals stuck in Jamaica can use to get consular assistance – +1 (876) 936 0700 (option two) and +44 (0)20 7008 5000.
According to Travel Gossip, a spokesperson for Sandals, which has multiple Sandals and Beaches resorts in Jamaica, said: “With more than four decades of experience operating in Jamaica and across the Caribbean, the resorts are well prepared for weather-related events.
“Each property follows detailed, time-tested protocols led by trained teams who are equipped to respond calmly and effectively as conditions evolve.
“Guests can be assured that every measure is being taken to ensure their safety and comfort, and that the resort’s dedicated team members – many of whom call Jamaica home – remain committed to providing care, communication and the warm hospitality for which Sandals and Beaches Resorts are known.”
Have flights to Jamaica been affected?
As all international airports have been closed on the island, all flights have currently been cancelled.
Kingston Airport said: “Passengers, contact your airline for rebooking.
“DO NOT go to the airport.”
Sangster International Airport has then said: “When we reopen, confirm flight status with your airline BEFORE travelling.”
Virgin Atlantic has cancelled today’s flight between London Heathrow and Montego Bay flight and the return journey too.
A spokesperson from the airline said: “Due to adverse weather conditions expected to be caused by Hurricane Melissa, some of our Jamaican flights are subject to cancellations and delays.
“The safety and welfare of our customers and crew is our top priority, and we are contacting any Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Atlantic Holiday customers who may be impacted by the hurricane to discuss their options.”
British Airways has also postponed the London Gatwick to Kingston flight, which was due to depart today.
A TUI spokesperson said: “We are closely monitoring the situation in Jamaica as Hurricane Melissa moves across the Caribbean.
“The safety and wellbeing of our customers and colleagues is always our top priority.
“Our teams are working around the clock to support everyone impacted and we are in direct contact with all customers whose travel plans may be affected.
“We understand this is an unsettling time and ask that customers currently in Jamaica continue to follow the advice of local authorities and their resort teams.”
Can I cancel my holiday?
Currently, the FCDO has not issued advice against non-essential travel to Jamaica.
This means if your holiday has been cancelled by your holiday provider or your airline, then you are legally entitled to a full refund.
Your provider should contact you directly if they are cancelling your trip, but you can also call them to confirm.
However, if you cancel your holiday or flight, companies have no obligation to refund you and you also will not be able to make a claim on your travel insurance, unless the government advice changes.
If you do have travel insurance, check your policy as it may include natural disaster cover.
Flight compensation rules
A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.
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