At least 300,000 people are reported to have been displaced by the hurricane, but no casualties have yet been reported.

The government of Jamaica has declared a state of emergency after Hurricane Dean hit the southern coast of the island with full force leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, with falling trees and debris blocking roads and downed power lines leaving areas without electricity.

Hurricane Dean, which brought wind speeds of up to 240 mph has so far caused nine deaths across the Caribbean. Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller announced the state of emergency yesterday, which is expected to last for up to a month. The general election which is due to take place on August 27 is likely to be delayed as a result of the hurricane.

The security forces are to be granted wider powers after incidents of looting were reported across the island. The Prime Minister called on off-duty public employees including police officers and fire-fighters to report for work. Airports have been closed since Saturday.

At least 300,000 people are reported to have been displaced by the hurricane, but no casualties have yet been reported. Hurricane Dean, as a category four storm is the strongest ever to hit the island.

NEWS UPDATE 16.50PM AUGUST 20 / Monday 20 August - 10am Kingston, Jamaica.

Holding statement regarding Hurricane Dean issued by Basil Smith, Director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board:-

In response to the recent Hurricane Dean, Basil Smith Director of Jamaica Tourist Board said: "We fared reasonably well. Any damage suffered was mostly to landscaping and utility poles. Damage to hotels is limited and in general the Hotel sector is in good shape. We expect to be open for business and fully operational very soon."

Jamaica is currently experiencing wind gusts and some rain from the outer bands of Hurricane Dean. There have been no reports of casualties and while the electricity remains off, many communities have water supplies and telephone services.

Both international airports in Kingston and Montego Bay are expected to be opened later today. Virgin Atlantic’s flight from Gatwick to Montego Bay (VS65) today has been delayed until 4pm. Air Jamaica’s flight from London Heathrow to Montego Bay has been delayed and a decision will be made at 6pm this evening as to the departure time. British Airways has delayed its daily flight from London Heathrow to Kingston by 24 hours and is due to depart tomorrow at 11.55am. Thomson has also delayed their flight from Gatwick to Montego Bay by 24 hours and is now due to leave August 22nd at 9.45am.

Travellers are advised to contact their tour operator for the latest updates. The Federation of Tour Operators estimates around 5,000 British visitors are currently on the island. Holiday makers have remained in Jamaica and have been advised to stay indoors until the Hurricane moves away from the island.

Hotels are reporting no severe damage and many expect to be fully operational by the end of the day. A round-up below details specific hotels. All Couples Resorts, Sunset resorts & Island Outpost properties in Jamaica have reported no damage, and with the worst now past they will be getting back to business.

Sandals: Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios, has not been directly affected by the hurricane. The hotel currently has no power but this should be remedied in the next couple of hours. Guests due to arrive at this time have the opportunity to revise their reservations and can do so by contacting the Sandals group or their travel agent.

Grand Lido in Negril - the hotel has suffered some minor damage to the spa and landscaping. They have electricity as the resort has a generator.

Elegant Resorts - Royal Plantation, Jamaica Inn & Round Hill have a few fallen trees, but no structural damage.

Jamaican parishes have been affected in the following ways:-

St. Andrew (east including Kingston)

Tree and sign damage
Light poles down
Some roof damage
No serious hotel damage yet reported
Road erosion in Helshire
Road to airport has been blocked

St. Mary (north east)

Junction to Broadgate road blocked

St. Ann (central north – including Ocho Rios)

Very little rain was experienced. Wind damage still being assessed.
Substantial amount of damage to roves.
No electricity, but have water.

St. James (west including Montego Bay)

Very little rain was experienced. Wind damage still being assessed.
Sandals Montego Bay expects to be operational today. Has gained beach.

Hanover (west)

Minimal damage
Round Hill will be fully operational today

St. Thomas (south east)

Severe wind damage reported to roofs and landscape
Roads blocked
Communication has not yet been established with the parish

A British consular team is now based in Montego Bay and the British High Commission is open 24 hours a day to take calls from or about British nationals with problems arising from Hurricane Dean. The number to call is (00 1 876) 510 0700.