Hopefully you’ll never have to “ride out” a storm while you’re on vacation, but it happens.  Just look at all the people that ended up being stranded in Jamaica when Hurricane Melissa struck.  So, if it happens to you, here’s some information you might find useful.

Storm Preparation Tips

1. Listen to Resort Staff and Local Authorities

• Resorts have hurricane protocols and designated safety teams.
• Attend any briefings and follow instructions immediately — the staff know which buildings are safest.
• Staff will usually bring guests together in reinforced interior areas if winds increase.

2. Stock Up Early

• Bottled water — enough for 2–3 days (at least a gallon per person per day).
• Snacks and non-perishables — nuts, crackers, fruit, and protein bars in case dining services close temporarily.
• Charge all devices fully and bring power banks if available.
• Keep a flashlight (or phone light) handy in case of brief outages.

3. Secure Your Room

• Move furniture and belongings away from windows or sliding doors.
• If there’s a balcony, bring in chairs or loose items.
• Close curtains and blinds — if glass breaks, it helps contain debris.

4. Stay Inside Once Winds Pick Up

• Don’t venture outside after warnings are issued — even for photos or ‘just a look.’
• Avoid beaches, pools, and open areas. Flying debris and storm surges can be dangerous long before the height of the storm.

5. Keep Communication Open

• Download and keep open WhatsApp or Messenger — these often work even with weak service.
• Tell loved ones you’re safe and conserve phone battery when not needed.
• Ask resort staff about designated communication channels for updates (hotel app, bulletin board, or text alerts).

6. Health and Essentials

• Keep medications, IDs, and travel documents (especially your passport) in a waterproof pouch or Ziploc bag.
• Have basic first aid items (bandages, disinfectant wipes, aspirin, and motion sickness tablets to name a few).

7. Cash and Power Outages

• Withdraw a small amount of cash before the storm if possible — ATMs and card systems may go down temporarily.
• Keep small bills handy for tips or minor purchases after the storm.

8. After the Storm

• Stay put until the resort gives the all-clear.  You may think it’s over, but you may just be in the eye of the storm.
• Be cautious of downed power lines, slick areas, or damaged trees if allowed outside.
• Expect flight delays and port closures; have patience as airports and airlines reset operations.

Reassurance

The safest place during a storm is almost always inside the resort, not on the road or at the airport during deteriorating conditions!