“We are urging all residents and visitors to take actions now to ensure that your homes, businesses and families are adequately prepared for this year’s hurricane season.”
That’s the word from Alvin Ryan, director of the Disaster Management Coordination Agency (DMCA), who addressed the public in a Facebook video message on 1 June.
“We have indeed been blessed by relatively low storm and hurricane impacts for a few years now. Let us not turn that blessing into a curse by being complacent,” he said.
The director reminded that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted an above normal Atlantic hurricane season – from June 1 to November 30.
“This year’s forecast is unfortunately less favourable than last year’s, as the indication is that we are expected to face more storms this season,” he said.
https://www.facebook.com/giumontserrat/videos/1129074811538150
NOAA predicts an 85% chance of an above normal season, a 10% chance of a near normal season and a 5% chance of a below normal season.
Experts forecast a range of 17 to 25 total named storms with winds of 39 miles per hour or higher. They expect eight to 13 to become hurricanes, with winds of 74 miles per hour or higher.
And of those, they have forecast four to seven to be major hurricanes, of category three, four or five, with winds of 111 miles per hour or higher.
Recent history
Ryan said people should consider this forecast as a tool to guide preparation activities.
“Because it really does only take one storm impacting Montserrat to cause severe damage to our island’s future prospects,” he said.
“We must remember our recent history and realise the damage even a weak storm or just a severe rain event can cause on certain areas in Montserrat, including Belham Valley.”
The DMCA director said the agency will continue to emphasise the importance of early preparations, regardless of the predictions.
“I must admit that it can be a bit challenging repeating similar information each year, seemingly saying the same things,” he said.
“But I think it is very worthwhile to keep reminding ourselves, we need to be prepared for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season.
“Action now can really help reduce the impacts of storms on our communities, reduce damage to property, and most importantly, save lives, which is the ultimate goal.
“Remember, it only takes one.”
Detailed information on how to prepare for a hurricane is available in the DMCA’s 2024 Hurricane Preparedness Guide here.
Visit the National Hurricane Center for the latest weather updates at www.nhc.noaa.gov
