It's Hurricane Season, Are You Ready?

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1 and ends on November 30. However, recently we have observed early tropical storm formation occurring in April or May. On May 22, 2021, Subtropical Storm Ana formed to the northeast of Bermuda, it later became a Post-Tropical Cyclone on 24th May. Scientists from the established research institutions the Colorado State University (CSU), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are all forecasting above-normal activity.

Taking all published predictions into consideration, the 2021 hurricane season is expected to be slightly above the long-term average (1950-2020), with 15 to 18 tropical storms forecasted. An above-average season is indicated by seven to nine storms reaching hurricane strength and two to four becoming major hurricanes. It is important to note that it only takes one hurricane or a superstorm making landfall to cause catastrophic damage to Barbados.

If you did not prepare for the season we urge you to start preparing now, making sure your personal records are up to date and that you create hard copies or digital records of important documents. Check to see if your home is vulnerable to strong winds, could be flooded by torrential rain, or if near the coastline impacted by storm surge. Learn the evacuation routes, you may need to use them if a quick departure is required. Prepare a Family Emergency Plan, this is critical when responding to emergencies, including those from natural hazards and man-made disasters. Discuss and share the emergency plan with family members. We also recommend having a Basic Emergency Supply Kit.  

You should also download the Department of Emergency Management's - Hurricane Preparedness Checklist.

Bajan Fire Fighters Network| www.bajanfirefighters.org | Public Safety 2021.