Global Affairs Canada revised its travel advice for Jamaica on Sunday 26 October 2025, moving the risk level to its highest tier—‘avoid all travel’—ahead of Category 4 Hurricane Melissa’s expected landfall. The move came hours after Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay suspended operations and national carrier Air Canada triggered flexible re-booking policies. Industry outlet PAX News reports that Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston had already closed on 25 October, with a tentative 29 October reopening.
The Canadian advisory warns that Melissa could deliver up to 760 mm of rain, widespread power outages and landslides, potentially trapping tourists without access to medical care. Travellers already in Jamaica are urged to shelter in place, keep documents waterproofed and register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.
Tour operators Sunwing and Air Transat have cancelled outbound flights through 29 October, offering refunds or future-travel credits. Corporate travel managers should track waivers closely and verify that employees hold insurance covering hurricane disruptions, as many policies exclude named storms once issued.
The advisory also has immigration implications: foreign workers and students with expiring permits who cannot depart on schedule may need to apply for status extensions or request restoration within 90 days. Employers sponsoring LMIA-exempt staff from Jamaica should document travel barriers to mitigate compliance risks.
Global Affairs said the advisory will be reassessed after initial damage surveys but reminded Canadians that consular capacity is limited during natural disasters. Mobility teams should ensure crisis-management protocols include satellite communication options and contingency lodging for assignees in the Caribbean during peak hurricane season.
The Canadian advisory warns that Melissa could deliver up to 760 mm of rain, widespread power outages and landslides, potentially trapping tourists without access to medical care. Travellers already in Jamaica are urged to shelter in place, keep documents waterproofed and register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.
Tour operators Sunwing and Air Transat have cancelled outbound flights through 29 October, offering refunds or future-travel credits. Corporate travel managers should track waivers closely and verify that employees hold insurance covering hurricane disruptions, as many policies exclude named storms once issued.
The advisory also has immigration implications: foreign workers and students with expiring permits who cannot depart on schedule may need to apply for status extensions or request restoration within 90 days. Employers sponsoring LMIA-exempt staff from Jamaica should document travel barriers to mitigate compliance risks.
Global Affairs said the advisory will be reassessed after initial damage surveys but reminded Canadians that consular capacity is limited during natural disasters. Mobility teams should ensure crisis-management protocols include satellite communication options and contingency lodging for assignees in the Caribbean during peak hurricane season.
