The United States Department of State has issued an updated travel warning for Jamaica due to natural disaster, crime and health concerns.
The Caribbean island nation’s travel warning is now a level three warning, requesting people “reconsider travel” to the country.
The State Department cites damage from Hurricane Melissa as the main factor for the updated travel advisory.
Hurricane Melissa, classified at category five, made landfall in Jamaica on Oct. 27, causing widespread damage across the nation, according to the State Department.
Because of the damage, the U.S. embassy in Kingston has reduced staffing and will temporarily be limiting routine services for U.S. citizens.
The State Department also updated the travel advisory due to crime risks. Armed robberies and sexual assaults are common and the homicide rate in the country is among the highest in the western hemisphere, according to the State Department.
Health is another factor in the updated warning. “Basic and specialized medical care may not be available in many parts of Jamaica,” the advisory reads.
The State Department also classified specific areas in the country as a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” due to high rates of crime.
If you decide to travel to Jamaica, the State Department has issued the following recommendations:
- Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition. This includes stray rounds, shells, or empty casings. The penalties for carrying firearms or ammunition, even by mistake, are severe, and can include long prison sentences.
- Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review the DOS’ information on Crisis and Evacuations.
- Avoid walking or driving at night.
- Avoid public buses.
- Avoid remote places.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
- Review the DOS information on Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, and for Victims of Crime.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
- Review the Country Security Report for Jamaica.
- Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Jamaica.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
