US Embassy revises travel advisory to Jamaica, reduces staff due to Hurricane Melissa
Josimar Scott / Our Today
author
The United States of America’s State Department has adjusted Jamaica’s travel advisory to Level 3: Reconsider Travel, citing increased risks following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.
“Reconsider Travel to Jamaica due to Crime, Health, and Natural Disaster risks. Some areas have increased risk,” the advisory read in part.
“Consider rescheduling planned travel to Jamaica at this time. If you intend to travel, confirm availability with your transportation provider and at your destination before you depart,” another section read.
At the same time, the US Embassy in Kingston revealed that, “On October 28, 2025, the Department of State authorised non-emergency personnel and family members of US government employees to leave Jamaica due to Hurricane Melissa.”
The local mission has since temporarily reduced staffing and said it may limit routine services for US citizens. However, the embassy remains open and will continue to provide emergency consular services.
Regarding crime, the advisory noted, “While violent crime in Jamaica has decreased since 2024, it remains statistically high throughout the country. The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica is among the highest in the Western Hemisphere.”
Though it noted that tourist areas tend to have a lower crime rate, the advisory highlights that robberies and sexual assaults are common.
On the matter of health services, the advisory stated, “Basic and specialised medical care may not be available in many parts of Jamaica. This includes slower emergency service response times and less availability of care for illness or injury.”
Comments