PORT OF SPAIN: 24TH OCTOBER, 2025
The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is actively monitoring the passage of Tropical Storm Melissa through the Caribbean Sea and affirms that the safety of all nationals is of utmost priority.
Earlier this week, the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, the Ministry of Tertiary Education and Skills Training and Caribbean Airlines held discussions and agreed that Trinidad and Tobago nationals, including students, seeking to leave Jamaica would be given priority on the national carrier.
For those students who are unable to travel, the Minister of Foreign and CARCIOM Affairs has directed the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in Kingston to ensure that emergency supplies are available should it be so required. The High Commission has also been working with the authorities at The University of the West Indies in Mona, and with other Jamaican Government agencies to ensure the safety of our students.
The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs advises all Trinidad and Tobago nationals residing in or visiting Jamaica to monitor local weather bulletins and follow the instructions of Jamaican authorities. Specifically, persons are urged to note the following.
Safety Actions
• Follow local instructions immediately- obey directives from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), and local parish authorities. Evacuation orders, shelter directions, road closures, and other official instructions must be followed without delay.
• Expect tropical-storm conditions- Melissa is forecast to pass south of Jamaica; tropical‑storm‑force winds, heavy rainfall and hazardous marine conditions are likely. Flash flooding and dangerous surf are possible.
• Prioritise personal safety- stay indoors during strong winds, keep away from rivers and gullies, and avoid low‑lying and flood‑prone areas. Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads or cross swollen rivers.
• Prepare an emergency kit- include water, non‑perishable food, torches, spare batteries, essential medications, important documents, a phone charger, and any items needed for infants or persons with disabilities.
• Avoid coastal and marine activities- small craft and recreational vessels should remain in port; beaches and seaside areas may be dangerous due to large waves and rip currents.
• Keep communications open- maintain contact with family and friends and let someone know your whereabouts. Charge mobile devices and keep key numbers to hand.
Consular Assistance
Trinidad and Tobago nationals requiring consular assistance should contact the High Commission for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Kingston, Jamaica: 1‑876‑926‑5730; 1‑876‑926‑5739; 1‑876‑968‑0588; or the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs in Port of Spain: (868) 623‑6894.
Student contact for assistance: Ms Amanda Fraser, High Commission, Kingston-Mobile: 1‑876‑480‑3537; email: hckingston@foreign.gov.tt.
