All Hands On Deck as Tourism Sector Prepares For Tropical Storm Melissa

Tourism stakeholders across the island are adopting an all-hands-on-deck approach as the sector braces for the impact of Tropical Storm Melissa.

Speaking to JIS News on Friday (Oct. 24),  Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) Area Chairperson for Montego Bay, Kerry Ann Quallo Casserly, said that there has been a high-level of preparedness, marked by regular meetings and continuous dialogue among hoteliers, attraction owners, government and State agencies.

She noted that meetings have been held with Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, with discussions focused on policy guidance, resource allocation, and coordinated rescue and relief efforts should Jamaica face significant impact from Melissa.

“Everyone is talking and in sync with each other to deal with any potential setback and fallout,” Mrs. Quallo Casserly pointed out.

“We are not leaving anything to chance. The strategy is to conserve resources, protect guests and staff, and ensure that contingency measures are in place that align with sound tourism management,” she said.

Mrs. Quallo Casserly noted that there has been heightened collaboration with the operators of the Sangster International Airport to ensure flight availability for guests who may wish to depart ahead of the storm.

In addition, she said that hotels are working with government agencies to determine the most effective humanitarian response, including sheltering employees and family members or providing essential services to communities in need during and after the event.

Mrs. Quallo Casserly urged continued vigilance, adherence to established protocols, and open lines of communication so that operators, employees, visitors and other stakeholders can safely navigate the storm.

She said that as the situation develops, the JHTA will continue to coordinate with its partners, including government agencies, to provide timely updates, reinforce safety protocols, and share guidance with hotels, attractions, and travel partners.

Stakeholders, she said, are encouraged to monitor official weather advisories and work through established channels for information and guidance to protect lives and livelihoods.