Met Office Asks For Preparedness As Threats of COVID-19 & Hurricanes Emerge

Senior Meteorological Officer, Marshall Alexander, urged all Dominicans to be prepared for the coming hurricane season which is underway. He said that the threats of COVID-19 and hurricanes are now staring everyone in the face, and that preparedness is key to surviving the times.

Alexander stated that the 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season which started on June 1 started a bit late this year and that it will last to November 30. According to him, several hurricanes and violent storms are expected to occur this year since weather conditions are ideal for their occurrence.

Although the average hurricane season produces up to 12 named storms, six hurricanes, and three major hurricanes, Alexander noted that the one for this year will be largely different. He said there might be up to 19 named storms and six major hurricanes of categories 3-5.

The prediction for this year is for an above-normal season; there is a 70% chance of 13- 19 named storms, 6-10 hurricanes and 3-6 major hurricanes of categories 3, 4, or 5 with winds of 111 miles per hour or higher.

Marshall Alexander: Senior Meteorological Officer

The senior meteorological official explained that the warmer seas in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea as well as the favourable winds over West Africa will increase hurricane activity in the region this year. He warned the government and individuals to be prepared by understanding the various environmental hazards that may occur at various intensities and at various places around the country and region this year.

Think ahead and keep in mind the hazards that are likely to affect you throughout the season including flooding, landslide, rockfall, rough seas and high winds and also the threat of Covid-19, know your vulnerability.

Marshall Alexander: Senior Meteorological Officer

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