With the 2015 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season starting on Monday, June 1st, meteorologists are predicting a historical below average activity. A total of nine named storms, five hurricanes and one major hurricane are expected this season, with the first storm name already used. Tropical Storm Anna developed Friday, May 8th and was the first pre-season development of the 2015 Hurricane Season.
The forecasts were prepared by the Weather Channel Professional Division, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Colorado State University (CSU), and all stated below average hurricane activity for 2015. Out of the predicted storms, only one is expected to attain ‘major’ status. According to the forecast, the moderate strength of the El Niño phenomenon and a relatively cool tropical Atlantic condition is attributing to the expected low activity. “Both the dynamical models and our proprietary statistical models suggest a relatively quiet tropical season this year,” stated Meteorologist Doctor Todd Crawford of The Weather Channel Professional Division.
The National Meteorological Service of Belize (Belize Hydromet) has already started making preparations for the season. “Like any other year, we like to ensure that the people are prepared. Forecasts can be changed, so it is in the best interest of everyone to take the necessary precautions and be extra prepared all season long,” said Chief Meteorological Officer Dennis Gonguez.
National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) and Red Cross agencies from across the country have also started making preparations across the country. Hurricane shelters have been inspected and identified.
Some helpful hurricane preparedness tips include: listen to Belize Hydromet and other agencies for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS), check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed, bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind, close your windows, doors and hurricane shutters (if you do not have hurricane shutters, close and board up all windows and doors with plywood), turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting (keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out), turn off propane tank, unplug small appliances, and fill your car’s gas tank. In addition it is important to create a hurricane evacuation plan with members of your household. Planning and practicing your evacuation plan minimizes confusion and fear during the event. Contact local authorities to learn about a community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs and make plans for your pets to be cared for. It is critical for all residents to obey evacuation orders, especially in areas in Belize that are prone to flooding.
To learn more, visit nemo.org.bz, call telephone number 822-2054/0995/0153, or email [email protected]. You can contact NEMO representative in San Pedro Jeromey Timrose Augustine-Cayetano at 206-2891, 600-8672 or 666–7476. Follow Belize Hydromet at www.hydromet.gov.bz/.
Names for the 2015 Atlantic Hurricane Season are: Ana (used), Bill, Claudette, Danny, Erika, Fred, Grace, Henri, Ida, Joaquin, Kate, Larry, Mindy, Nicholas, Odette, Peter, Rose, Sam, Teresa, Victor and Wanda.
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