Sagicor warns: Refrain from complacency in hurricane season preparation

Despite a 25 per cent decline in activity being forecasted for the 2023 North Atlantic hurricane season, Sagicor is warning Barbadians not to be complacent in their preparations for the impact of any potential weather systems during this hurricane season.

In a recent hurricane season forecast update, Tropical Storm Risk (TSR) states that activity this hurricane season is forecast to be around 25 per cent below the 1991-2020 30-year norm.

The report stated, that despite the anticipation of a season with below-normal activity, “this outlook has large uncertainties and the forecast skill at this range is low”. It cautions that any change in conditions could result in a much different outcome over the course of the June 1 to November 30 season.

“Although large uncertainties remain at the pre-season forecast range, we consider that the more likely scenario is for tropical North Atlantic and Caribbean Sea waters to be slightly warmer than normal by August-September 2023, and for moderate El Nino conditions to develop and persist through August-September 2023 and into the autumn,” the report said.

As it relates to the number of storms projected to form over the six-month period, the report forecasted 13 tropical storms and six hurricanes, with two hurricanes predicted to be at the level of category three or higher.

Sagicor’s Vice President, Insurance Operations, Mark Prescott.

SGI’s Vice President – Insurance Operations, Mark Prescott, echoed the caution, stating that the experiences of the last few years are a clear reminder of the unpredictable nature of life, which should encourage every individual and business to put measures in place to protect themselves against the unforeseen.

“Just a couple weeks into the season and we have already seen the development of Tropical Storm Bret. In 2021, we had witnessed the unusual development of Subtropical Storm Ana prior to the official start of the season, while in 2022 we had a similar occurrence with the formation of Hurricane Agatha, which made landfall along the Pacific coast of Mexico,” he recalled. “By August, we had already seen the development of Tropical Storms Alex, Bonnie and Colin, so when we look at recent history, we need to constantly remind ourselves of the unpredictability and uncertainties of life and why we always need to be prepared.”

Prescott reiterated his annual plea to Barbadians and all Sagicor policyholders. “Check your roofs, windows, doors and the walls of your property for, and repair any cracks or weak areas. If indeed your home is damaged by a storm, we will be there to provide the financial and emotional support our clients need to get things back in order. However, by reducing the potential for damage through repairing or reinforcing key areas, any discomfort to you and your family can be significantly minimised.”

The insurance executive also encouraged all property owners and renters to make a detailed list of their possessions and valuables and seriously consider taking out a contents insurance package to cover any potential damage or destruction that could be caused by a storm, hurricane, or seasonal flooding. 

(PR)