~ EMO Executive will meet next week ~
The 2022 Hurricane Season starts tomorrow, June 1, and today the Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks confirmed that the Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) Executive will meet next week to assess Government’s hurricane readiness.
Minister Weeks said, “This is a very familiar time of year for us. Hurricane Season runs from June 1st to November 30th, and to ensure we have the latest information, we’re convening a meeting with partner agencies to make sure everyone is prepared and ready in the event of a serious storm or hurricane.
“We’ve been advised that forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, have predicted above-average hurricane activity this year.
“NOAA’s outlook for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, predicts a 65% chance of an above-normal season and is forecasting a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA provides these ranges with a 70% confidence. So, it’s very important that residents and businesses take the time this month to review their hurricane plans and make sure they refresh their storm supplies.”
To assist residents in getting ready, the Minister notes that homeowners and business should consider doing some of the following:
- Inspect and ensure that your roof, windows, shutters, and doors are in good order and make any necessary repairs.
- Review your family hurricane plans and update them with any changes to phone numbers and other important information.
- Take stock of all medical prescriptions that your family and pets require and ensure you have at least two weeks supply on hand.
- Check your hurricane kit(s) to make sure you have working flashlights, a portable radio with spare batteries and a stock of non-perishable food to last your family for seven days.
- Ensure your house insurance policy is up to date.
- Visit your vulnerable neighbours and ask them if they need any help with their preparations.
The Ministry of National Security will provide the public with an update following next week’s EMO meeting.