A desperate international search is underway for a British couple who have mysteriously vanished from their luxury Jamaican resort as Hurricane Melissa bears down on the Caribbean island.
Richard and Dianne Kitching, both in their late 60s, were last seen at their accommodation in Ocho Rios on Tuesday afternoon, just hours before severe weather conditions began to sweep across the popular tourist destination.
Disappearance Amidst Impending Storm
The couple, described as experienced travellers from the UK, failed to check out of their hotel as scheduled and have not been in contact with family members back in Britain. Their disappearance has triggered a major response from Jamaican authorities and the Foreign Office.
Local police have confirmed they are treating the case as "highly unusual" given the timing coinciding with the approaching hurricane and the couple's established travel patterns.
Family's Growing Concern
Relatives in the UK have expressed increasing alarm as communication attempts have gone unanswered. "This is completely out of character for them," a family spokesperson stated. "They're meticulous planners and always stay in regular contact."
Jamaican resort staff reported that the couple's personal belongings, including passports and luggage, remain in their room, adding to the mystery surrounding their disappearance.
Hurricane Complicates Search Efforts
The developing weather crisis has severely hampered search operations, with Hurricane Melissa bringing torrential rains and dangerous winds to the northern coastline where the couple was staying. Emergency services are operating under challenging conditions as they comb the area.
Tourism officials have emphasised that Ocho Rios had implemented standard hurricane preparedness protocols before the couple vanished, including advisories for visitors to remain within resort boundaries.
Foreign Office Involvement
The British Foreign Office has confirmed it is providing support to the family and working closely with Jamaican authorities. A spokesperson stated: "We are assisting the family of a British couple reported missing in Jamaica and are in contact with the local authorities."
Travel experts have noted that the situation highlights the importance of maintaining communication with family back home and registering with embassies when travelling to regions experiencing severe weather events.
The search continues despite deteriorating conditions, with hopes remaining that the couple will be found safe as the hurricane passes through the region.
