Three American Couples Stand Firm in Jamaica Despite Calls for Evacuation

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PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — The description on the website vividly portrays Sandals South Coast as a resort interlaced with water. This aquatic allure was precisely what drew three families to the islands for their traditional October getaway. Although there was a possibility of a storm, it was initially deemed improbable.

“We heard about a tropical depression,” shared Jessica Pope. “Aware of it, but considering we visit the Caribbean every October without any issues, we figured it was routine. When we departed on Tuesday, we knew of the depression, but by Thursday, it escalated into a major threat.”

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As the storm rapidly evolved from a minor concern to a life-threatening danger, the families urgently sought flights to return home.

“They were booked on Delta flights,” Pope explained. “However, flights were unavailable. We had reservations with American, but as we searched, ticket prices soared to around $3,000 each. We found a single affordable ticket, but it meant separating from my husband or our friends. There was no option to accommodate all six of us together.”

With time running out, the travelers from the 757 region explained that all guests were consolidated into one building, while non-essential staff members were sent home.

The families could ask for your thoughts and prayers as they ride out the storm. Instead, they are asking you to pray for the people of Jamaica.

“We know that we’re in a much better situation than their families, I’m sure,” Pope said. “And where their homes are. I mean, we’re up high and in a secure building that has a generator. I mean, it’s the people in Jamaica [who] need prayers now, but the staff here has been amazing.”