Hurricane Melissa : Bay Area families fear for safety of loved ones in Jamaica as storm approaches

OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) — Many families in the Bay Area are very worried about their loved ones living in Jamaica as a monster hurricane moves closer to the island nation by the minute.

Terry Ann Smith from Santa Rosa is cooking up lots of authentic Jamaican dishes inside her food truck, Reggae Rasta Styles. On Sunday, it was parked near Lake Merritt in Oakland. But right now, she’s worried about her family back home in Montego Bay, Jamaica as Hurricane Melissa approaches.

“We’re hoping and praying that all of our family members are safe in this hurricane. My brother, my nieces, everyone, so we’re praying,” Smith said.

Smith is checking in by phone with her cousin, Suzette Ebanks, who’s racing to protect her home with tarps and plywood, reinforcing the roof. Ebanks and others are concerned about the speed of the hurricane.

“They say this one is more dangerous. This one is moving slow, and it’s more dangerous than when it’s going fast,” Ebanks said.

RELATED: Hurricane Melissa upgraded to Category 4, expected to strengthen on Jamaica approach

The surf is churning on Jamaica’s north coast. Video taken by the brother of Odain Miller shows that.

Miller owns Nalos Jamerican Soul restaurant in Oakland. He’s been in close touch with relatives back in his hometown.

“They’re telling me all shopping is done. Everyone’s staying in. Nobody’s going out. Getting ready for five days of storms. I’ve already sent money. That’s what we do,” Miller said.

Both Miller and Smith survived Hurricane Ivan in 2004, which caused widespread damage in Jamaica.

“Strong currents, 20 foot waves. I was on the coastline. I witnessed all that stuff,” Miller said.

“We had half a house when Ivan came through, but you have to rebuild yourself. The government don’t help rebuild,” Smith said.

Everyone is sending hopes and prayers that loved ones will be safe during the storm. Ebanks plans to hunker down.