Premier Joseph E Farrell has urged residents to “be prepared and stay prepared” as Montserrat enters this year’s Atlantic hurricane season.
He delivered his 2024 hurricane message on 1 June – the official start of the six month season, which continues until the end of November.
“As we enter the hotter period of the year… I would like to shift your attention to finalising your preparations for any potential storms or hurricanes that may come our way,” he said.
The premier asked people to remain vigilant and monitor information from the officials at the Disaster Management Coordination Agency (DMCA).
He said everyone should follow their advice and guidance, and take all the necessary steps to protect themselves, their families, homes and businesses.
Weather experts have predicted that this year’s hurricane season will be above normal.
“This is in no way a prediction of impact and this does not mean we will be affected; but increased activity brings greater potential for impact,” Farrell said.
“The reality is that it only takes one hurricane to make landfall and cause varying degrees of damage, depending on its strength. Therefore, I want to urge each and every one to be prepared and stay prepared.”
An active season
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in its 2024 outlook has predicted an 85% chance of an above-normal season, forecasting a range of 17 to 25 named storms.
Meanwhile, AccuWeather forecasters predicted 20 to 25 named storms across the Atlantic basin this year, including eight to 12 hurricanes, and four to seven major hurricanes
“As a people, we have had many experiences which have tested our resilience and indeed together we have weathered many storms and have always managed to bounce back,” the premier said.
“We have also been spared over the years and through God’s mercies have not had any direct or serious impact in recent years.
https://www.facebook.com/giumontserrat/videos/1122974612145494
“We pray that God’s favour will continue to be extended to us this season and that our island will be shielded from hurricanes this year.
“While we spiritually prepare by asking God for his continued protection, we must also be physically prepared by taking the necessary steps required to protect our lives, properties and livelihoods.”
Simple steps
The DMCA through their public education programmes and messages will remind residents of all the steps they must take, the premier said, adding: “You are encouraged to follow their guidance”.
“Please remember that by simply clearing your yard and surroundings of objects that can become missiles, such as loose galvanise, lumber and other items, you are taking preventative measures which are essential this season.
“By trimming your trees and ensuring that your drains are clear, you will help to reduce the risk of flooding.
“These are some of the simple steps we can take individually to protect our families and properties this hurricane season.”
He encouraged residents to remember community members such as the vulnerable and elderly who may need assistance.
“Please help them to prepare and extend some assistance however you could,” the premier said.
“We are always working together to help each other and for the betterment of this island, and this hurricane season is no different.
“Please do not become complacent; be prepared, stay prepared, it only takes one.”
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
