Researchers continue to forecast an active 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season and have updated the list of named storms from 18 to a total of 20 expected storms.
The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) confirmed these latest developments in a media release on Monday, July 12.
“Researchers at the Colorado State University increased the number of expected named storms for this season to 20 in their latest forecast report issued last week,” the DDM stated.
“Forecasters expect the 2021 season to bring above average storm activity throughout the Atlantic basin, with an estimated 57% chance that at least one major hurricane will track into the Caribbean Sea. The report repeats previous expectations of nine hurricanes, of which four are expected to be category 3, 4 or 5 in strength,” the DDM added.
Following the recent finding, the Acting Director of the Department of Disaster Management Jasen Penn issued a reminder to residents to be ready for the possibility of the territory experiencing a storm or hurricane.
“As a territory we have been fortunate so far this season in that none of the five named systems that formed have impacted our shores. We are now moving into what is historically the busier period for storm formation, so it’s imperative that persons do what they can to protect themselves and their families,” he stated.
He also encouraged residents to monitor the weather conditions, to have an emergency plan and to assemble a well-stocked emergency supply kit consisting of medications and personal protective equipment.
These he said are all essential steps to hurricane season preparedness.