TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS ANTICIPATES SLIGHTLY BELOW AVERAGE 2023 HURRICANE SEASON

With the Atlantic Hurricane Season approaching, the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) urges residents to initiate early preparedness measures to ensure their homes, businesses, and families are ready. Reflecting on the 2022 Hurricane Season and the impact of Hurricane Fiona, the importance of preparedness cannot be overstated.

According to preliminary predictions by hurricane researchers at the Colorado State University (CSU) on April 13, 2023, the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season is expected to be slightly below average. The CSU team forecasts thirteen named storms, with six predicted to become hurricanes and two expected to reach major hurricane strength (Category 3 or above). In comparison, a typical season experiences approximately fourteen tropical storms and seven hurricanes, based on historical weather records spanning from 1991 to 2020.

The presence of “El Niño” conditions, characterized by warmer-than-normal eastern and central tropical and subtropical Atlantic Sea surface temperatures, along- side near-average Caribbean Sea surface temperatures, is identified as a significant contributing factor. However, the conflicting signals between a potentially robust El Niño and anomalously warm tropical and subtropical Atlantic conditions introduce additional uncertainty to the outlook.

Despite the slightly below-average forecast, residents are strongly advised to take necessary precautions, as it only takes one storm near our location to make the season active for them. Preparedness remains paramount, as the potential impact of any storm can be significant.

The DDME, in collaboration with the Turks and Caicos Airport Authority (TCIAA) Meteorological Department, will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide timely updates throughout the season. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and heed any warnings or advisories issued by local authorities.

The first named storm of the Atlantic Hurricane Season will be ‘Arlene’.