WNY chef reflects on hurricanes, storms in Jamaica

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- For chef Darian Bryan, hurricanes were a big part of growing up in Jamaica. His family and friends living there are now preparing for Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 hurricane.

As the hurricane barrels toward Jamaica, Bryan -- owner of Bratts Hill and The Plating Society -- was reminded of the storms he experienced, remembering stories of his roof being torn off and the destruction left behind.

He still has uncles, cousins, and friends who live there. Bryan's been checking in with them over the last five days. He said that as of early Monday morning, there was wind but not much rain yet in his hometown of Clarendon.

Bryan said his family and friends are preparing. That includes putting away animals, covering windows, and stocking up on canned foods.

Forecasters said this hurricane is expected to bring 20-30 inches of rainfall to Jamaica.

"I'm just telling people, if you can evacuate ... if you live in certain areas, just please listen, because this one is going to be different from what we ever experienced before," he said.

Bryan moved to Buffalo from Jamaica 13 years ago. He said Jamaicans are a united group of people, and that when things like this happen, they always come together to rebuild.

"Hurricanes have been a big part of my life growing up," said Bryan. "I experienced so many -- at least three, I would say. And it's one of those things you're never going to ever forget because it destroys your house, your animals, your clothes."

Bryan is also assisting World Central Kitchen in connecting with chefs on the island to help those in need. He said he plans to go down there after the storm.