Public encouraged to prepare for 2022 hurricane season

(CMR) With a very busy hurricane season expected, 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.

“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,” HMCI Director Danielle Coleman said.

Weather Service Director John Tibbetts acknowledged the models forecasting severe weather beginning last month but advised the public to monitor official sources for more accurate forecasts.

“It’s important to continue to monitor the National Weather Service and verify updates shared on social media against official sources,” he said.

The Weather Service also continues to work to complete repairs to the Doppler radar, which has been hampered by supply chain issues. While one part necessary to fix the backup 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,” he added.

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 minimize the impacts of severe weather events.”