With the Atlantic hurricane season beginning on June 1, the Virgin Islands should take steps to prepare for storms and hurricanes at home, work and in the community.

Although NOAA forecasters anticipate a slightly below normal level of activity this year, Director of Disaster Management Mr. Jasen Penn said preparedness remains important.

“As we experienced with Ernesto in 2024, just one impact of a tropical storm has the potential to cause serious damage and interrupt our routines. We are all safer and more comfortable if we remain prepared,” Mr. Penn said.

The Director also noted that advanced preparedness is important in light of the frequency of rapid intensification, which shortens the timeline persons have to prepare for specific storm threats. 

“Whether we are looking at Hurricane Irma, Beryl, Melissa or a number of other memorable impacts, many of them were tropical storms just two days before making landfall as a major hurricane,” Mr. Penn said. 

At a press conference today, NOAA forecasters announced that they anticipate between eight and 14 named storms for the Atlantic Basin this season. Of those, between three and six are expected to develop into hurricanes with winds of 74 miles per hour or greater. Between one and three hurricanes are expected to strengthen to Category 3 or higher.

El Nino was cited as the driving factor behind the forecast, as its presence disrupts winds and inhibits storm formation in the Atlantic Basin.

Mr. Penn said some the most urgent steps persons can take to prepare are to prepare their property by clearing drains and removing bulky waste; review emergency plans with their household and at work; assemble essential supplies like food, water and medication for at least three days; and to stay informed using reliable sources like the DDM app or WhatsApp Channel. 

He further advised homeowners and renters alike to consider obtaining insurance coverage.

“If you have insurance, it’s a good idea to review your insured amounts and any responsibilities your policy requires,” Mr. Penn said. 

The director also noted that resources to assist with preparedness like the emergency shelter list, emergency plan templates for families and businesses, emergency supply checklist, and a storm tracking map are available at www.bviddm.com.

###

About the Department of Disaster Management:

The Department of Disaster Management was established to protect lives and maintain a resilient, sustainable economy and society by fostering comprehensive disaster management and climate change adaptation as a way of life. The Virgin Islands disaster management programme is accredited by the Emergency Management Accreditation Programme.