In response to the recent Hurricane Dean, Basil Smith Director of Jamaica Tourist Board said ‘We fared reasonably well. Any damage suffered was mostly to landscaping and utility poles.  Damage to hotels is limited and in general the Hotel sector is in good shape. We expect to be open for business and fully operational very soon.’

Jamaica is currently experiencing wind gusts and some rain from the outer bands of Hurricane Dean.  There have been no reports of casualties and while the electricity remains off, many communities have water supplies and telephone services. 

Both international airports in Kingston and Montego Bay are expected to be opened later today.  Virgin Atlantic’s flight from Gatwick to Montego Bay (VS65) today has been delayed until 4pm.  Air Jamaica’s flight from London Heathrow to Montego Bay has been delayed and a decision will be made at 6pm this evening as to the departure time.  British Airways has delayed its daily flight from London Heathrow to Kingston by 24 hours and is due to depart tomorrow at 11.55am.  Thomson has also delayed their flight from Gatwick to Montego Bay by 24 hours and is now due to leave August 22nd at 9.45am.

Travellers are advised to contact their tour operator for the latest updates.

The Federation of Tour Operators estimates around 5,000 British visitors are currently on the island.  Holiday makers have remained in Jamaica and have been advised to stay indoors until the Hurricane moves away from the island.

Hotels are reporting no severe damage and many expect to be fully operational by the end of the day.  A round-up below details specific hotels.

All Couples Resorts, Sunset resorts & Island Outpost properties in Jamaica have reported no damage, and with the worst now past they will be getting back to business.

Sandals: Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios, has not been directly affected by the hurricane. The hotel currently has no power but this should be remedied in the next couple of hours. Guests due to arrive at this time have the opportunity to revise their reservations and can do so by contacting the Sandals group or their travel agent. 

Grand Lido in Negril - the hotel has suffered some minor damage to the spa and landscaping. They have electricity as the resort has a generator.

Elegant Resorts - Royal Plantation, Jamaica Inn & Round Hill have a few fallen trees, but no structural damage. 

Jamaican parishes have been affected in the following ways:

St. Andrew (east including Kingston)

Tree and sign damage

Light poles down

Some roof damage

No serious hotel damage yet reported

Road erosion in Helshire

Road to airport has been blocked

St. Mary (north east)

Junction to Broadgate road blocked

St. Ann (central north - including Ocho Rios)

Very little rain was experienced. Wind damage still being assessed.

Substantial amount of damage to roves.

No electricity, but have water.

St. James (west including Montego Bay)

Very little rain was experienced. Wind damage still being assessed.

Sandals Montego Bay expects to be operational today. Has gained beach.

Hanover (west)

Minimal damage

Round Hill will be fully operational today

St. Thomas (south east)

Severe wind damage reported to roofs and landscape

Roads blocked

Communication has not yet been established with the parish

A British consular team is now based in Montego Bay and the British High Commission is open 24 hours a day to take calls from or about British nationals with problems arising from Hurricane Dean. The number to call is (00 1 876) 510 0700.

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