MEMPHIS, Tenn.(WREG) — A Memphis couple is among thousands of tourists trapped in Jamaica as Hurricane Melissa moves over the island.
NewsNation affiliate WREG interviewed the couple about their terrifying experience.
James Thomas Jr. says his Jamaica trip took a turn for the worse when Hurricane Melissa made landfall as a Category 5 storm. He says he did not know about the hurricane until he landed.
“We came in Thursday and the weather had been fine since all the way through Saturday, I’d say. So, we were enjoying our vacation, but we were just waiting on the hurricane,” Thomas said.
As the heavy rain and powerful winds battered the island, Thomas and his wife took cover in their resort.
“But, then when the hurricane came, like when the roof and stuff started coming off where we were laying down at in that room, they moved us on down to the bunker and we stayed there for like 11, 12 hours, until the hurricane blew over last night,” he said.
It may be days, even more than a week, before any flights can leave or arrive from the local airports, leaving tourists trapped on the island.
Hurricane Melissa’s path of destruction damaged buildings and knocked out power for most of the island, which has made it difficult for Thomas to return home.
His mother, who hadn’t heard from her son until after midnight, says she’s worried about his safety.
“My concern is getting them home, if I can just get them home. I would feel more comfortable when they can get on that flight,” Anita Boyland said.
With the airport in Montego Bay being damaged and without power, she tells WREG it could be another week before her son returns.
During this time of uncertainty, Thomas’ mother says the resort is forcing guests to pay more money for their extended stay.
“That’s absurd. I mean, they should have some type of sympathy, due to the weather,” Boyland said. “It’s a disaster, that’s due to no fault of your own. So, I mean, why would you want to charge them and they’re not even enjoying the resort?”
As the recovery and cleanup begins in Jamaica, the mother is praying that her son will be safe on his journey back home.