Locals trapped in Jamaica during Category 5 Hurricane Melissa

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica (WSAZ) - A mandatory evacuation order was issued for many areas surrounding the Caribbean.

But there were still people who couldn’t leave in time.

That includes Adam and Jordan Simmons, Huntington natives who were planning on spending their honeymoon in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

The couple got married in January and said that Jamaica was a dream destination for them.

But what was supposed to be a relaxing trip, has now put them in the eye of the storm.

“We’re packing go bags of just what we can leave in our suitcases, if we have to go,” said Jordan Simmons. “What are we OK with being damaged, destroyed, and maybe never able to get back.”

The Simmons aren’t the only couple stuck at their resort. They’re alongside about 160 other guests, as well as several other people local to our area.

“The rain is really picking up, and it’s starting to be different,” said Adam Simmons.

The couple arrived to Montego Bay last Tuesday and were supposed to fly out this Tuesday. Once they learned how bad the storm would be, they tried to get an earlier flight but ended up being unsuccessful.

Now, they’re stuck at their resort until the storm passes.

They have a return flight booked for Thursday but are now preparing for the possibility that they could have to extend their trip another few days.

“We’re still hopeful for the best outcome. Again, we’re a very small issue in a very large problem,” Adam said. “Our hearts are really towards the Jamaicans because the devastation will still be here. Eventually, we’ll be able to go home, but our thoughts and prayers are for the island itself.”

To pass time, the couple has played games with other stranded guests, walked around the inside of the resort, and eaten some great food.

They’re expecting to spend another full night in their hotel room before having to move to the resort’s storm shelter.

We will be continuing to talk with the Simmons and provide the latest updates on Hurricane Melissa.