Hurricane Melissa cut across Jamaica and Haiti this week, leaving deadly floods and landslides in its wake, before making landfall in Cuba on Wednesday. The storm hit Jamaica as one of the strongest hurricanes the island ever recorded, causing severe damage to public infrastructure, with the full extent of the devastation and number of casualties still unclear. The region’s art scene, meanwhile, appeared braced for impact.

The National Gallery of Jamaica, on Kingston’s historic waterfront, has been closed since October 24. “Updates regarding reopening will be shared once conditions are safe to do so,” according to a statement.

On Facebook, the museum offered artists advice on safeguarding their work and studios before and after Hurricane Melissa made landfall. This included appraising work in advance, removing it from walls and storing at least three feet above the ground, and covering it with a plastic sheet. Outdoor sculptures should be securely anchored with rope to a concrete beam, artists were advised.

“Take the necessary steps to protect your artwork and remember to inspect each...