The Canadian government is cautioning citizens against traveling to specific areas in the Caribbean due to Hurricane Melissa causing devastation. The powerful Category 5 storm has resulted in numerous fatalities and extensive damage in Cuba, Jamaica, and Haiti, leading to power outages and displacement of residents from flooded communities.
Global Affairs Canada (GAC) has updated its travel advisories, urging Canadians to avoid all travel to Jamaica, Haiti, and the eastern parts of Cuba. Previously, the advisory for Haiti was due to security concerns like kidnappings and violence. Additionally, non-essential travel to the southeastern and central Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and Bermuda is discouraged.
GAC is dispatching a rapid-response team to provide emergency support in the affected region. Canadians requiring assistance can reach out to GAC through various communication channels. Randeep Sarai, the secretary of state for international development, emphasized Canada’s close monitoring of the situation and readiness to assist with logistical and humanitarian aid upon local requests.
Sarai highlighted the severity of the disaster, stating that Hurricane Melissa is the most significant storm Jamaica has ever faced. He mentioned that Cuba and Jamaica have accessed emergency funds, including contributions from Canada, to address the aftermath. Canadian-supported organizations like the Red Cross and World Food Program have also provided aid, with ongoing efforts to support hurricane resilience projects in the region.
“We are collaborating with the governments of Cuba and Jamaica to explore additional ways to extend our assistance and humanitarian relief efforts,” Sarai stated. “Canada stands prepared to consider any requests for assistance once they are formally submitted.”
