Preparations are underway in Saint Lucia and the rest of the region for the 2024 hurricane season. The season officially commences on June 1 and ends on November 30—with heightened activity forecasted for this year.

To this end, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the United States Air Force hosted several preparatory events.

The Saint Lucia Meteorological Services Director, Mr. Andre Joyeux, said: “The 2024 Caribbean Awareness Hurricane Tour is underway. The NOAA and the US Air Force reserve hosted a series of events to help Caribbean communities prepare for the hurricane season. A tour of the Air Force Reserve Command WC130J hurricane hunter aircraft showcased how scientists collect data from hurricanes. Personnel from the US National Hurricane Center discussed hurricane preparedness, resilience and how people can become whether ready ahead of the hurricane season.”

National Hurricane Centre personnel visited Saint Lucia on April 19, and shared data on hurricane systems and resilience. Weather experts say that the El Nino weather phenomenon experienced last year will give way to La Nina, which results in more active storm formations.

The Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1.