By: Hannah Reid

Ahead of the start of the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season on 1 June, Hazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI) and the Cayman Islands National Weather Service (CINWS) are encouraging the public to be prepared, have a plan, and monitor official sources for updates.

“The inclement weather forecasts circulating on social media are a timely reminder of the need to be prepared ahead of hurricane season,” said HMCI Director Danielle Coleman. “Now is the time to stock up on emergency supplies and items for securing your home, make a plan for your family or business, and stay tuned to radio and local television for the latest official notices from Hazard Management and the National Weather Service.”

Weather Service Director John Tibbetts acknowledged the models forecasting severe weather beginning on or around 20 May but advised the public to continue monitoring official sources for more accurate forecasts in the coming days.

“It’s important to continue to monitor the National Weather Services, and verify updates shared on social media against official sources,” he said. “A lot can happen in a week.”

The Weather Service also continues to work to complete repairs to the Doppler radar, which have been hampered by supply chain issues. While one part necessary to fix the back-up generator has arrived on-island and is expected to be installed later this month, the Weather Service continues to wait on an additional part for the weather radar.

“Earlier in the year, we were hopeful the part would arrive well ahead of the 2022 hurricane season but the order is still in progress and an updated arrival date has not been provided. We continue to follow up with the radar manufacturer on the status of our order and are making every effort to get the radar up and running as soon as possible,” Tibbetts said. “In the meantime, our team continues to deliver accurate, timely forecasts, advisories and warnings to the public using the other tools and services at our disposal.”

Premier and Minister of Sustainability & Climate Resiliency Hon. G. Wayne Panton, JP, MP said global climate change increases the need for the Cayman Islands community to be prepared for severe weather events.

“More frequent and intense storms are one impact of increased global temperatures that is particularly relevant to our country,” Panton said. “Being prepared is one of the most important things we can do as individuals, as families, businesses and communities to minimise the impacts of severe weather events.”

For more information on preparing for hurricane season, please visit: https://caymanprepared.gov.ky/