"Weather volatility, as demonstrated by the 2013 Christmas Eve trough, demands that we are prepared at all times for unexpected dangerous events," NEMO Director Velda Joseph said.

The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) is urging caution as the hurricane season begins.

June 1 marked the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season, and while this year's forecasts suggest a below average season, NEMO is urging the public to reassess its vulnerabilities and risks and update emergency plans.

Colorado State University (CSU) researchers have predicted a well below average storm season for the Atlantic basin. The CSU Tropical Meteorological Project team named seven storms with winds of 39 mph or higher, of which three are expected to become hurricanes with winds of 74 mph or higher, and one to reach major hurricane strength with sustained winds of 111 mph or greater.

Likewise, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) predicted a below normal season, with a 70 percent likelihood of six to 11 storms of which three to six can become hurricanes; and two, major hurricanes.

"Despite these predictions NEMO wishes to strongly convey that a below normal season does not mean that we can relax," NEMO Director Velda Joseph said. "As has been seen in the past, below normal seasons can still have very devastating impacts on communities and nations, and for us one landfall event can make the season a very active one.

"Further we should be mindful that continued volatility in weather, as demonstrated by the 2013 Christmas Eve trough demands that we are prepared at all times for unexpected and dangerous events."

Ms. Joseph added that while NEMO will play its part to ensure that the nation is in a state of readiness to deal with the impact of hazards, it is the responsibility of the public to take disaster preparedness information seriously, and implement the necessary measures that will ensure safety and reduce losses.

The hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30.