While hoteliers in western Jamaica are on high alert for hurricane melissa, they have assured that they are prepared to ride out the storm.

The hurricane is still moving slowly in a westward direction along the island’s southern coast, with the expectation that it will turn north, and possibly go across western parishes by tomorrow.

The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) said hotels in the west end, especially Negril, have long put in place contingency measures.

JHTA President Christopher Jarrett said the tourism ministry has also activated shelters in St. James and Westmoreland.

As it relates to resort readiness islandwide, Mr. Jarrett said hotels made arrangements to keep both staff and guests safe, during the storm.

This includes taking in the families of staff members who are in need of shelter.

He added that hotels are offering distress rates to tourists who are unable to leave and have to extend their stay.