Verizon has implemented emergency communication measures to help customers maintain contact with regions affected by Hurricane Melissa's Category 5 landfall in Jamaica. The telecommunications company is waiving all charges for international calls from consumer and small business wireless and landline customers to Jamaica, Turks and Caicos, and the Bahamas through November 12, 2025. This initiative provides essential communication access during what is typically the most challenging period following a major natural disaster.
The relief measures extend beyond standard calling services, with customers currently located within the hurricane-impacted regions of Jamaica, Turks and Caicos, and the Bahamas receiving free calling, texting, and data roaming services during the same period. This comprehensive approach ensures that both those trying to reach loved ones in affected areas and those within the disaster zones can communicate without financial barriers. The timing of these measures corresponds with the immediate aftermath and early recovery phase following Hurricane Melissa's catastrophic impact.
The offer applies broadly across Verizon's customer base, including all consumer accounts and small business customers with 50 lines or fewer. Additionally, customers of Verizon-owned prepaid brands including Straight Talk, Tracfone, Total by Verizon, Simple Mobile, Safelink, Walmart Family Mobile, Net10, GoSmart, and Page Plus are included in the relief program. Customers do not need to take any action to activate these benefits, as calls will automatically be rated at zero dollars per minute. For additional information about Verizon's emergency response efforts, customers can visit the company's Emergency Resource Center.
Such communication relief efforts have become increasingly important components of disaster response, enabling families to verify safety, coordinate assistance, and maintain emotional connections during times of crisis. The inclusion of both postpaid and prepaid customers ensures that financial circumstances don't prevent anyone from accessing vital communication channels when they're needed most. The free services began on October 28 and will remain in effect through November 12, 2025, providing a critical communication window that supports both immediate safety concerns and longer-term recovery coordination.
