ACCORDING TO SEASONAL FORECASTS, THERE IS AN INCREASED LIKELIHOOD OF A LESS ACTIVE ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON DUE TO EL NINO CONDITIONS
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is urging all Saint Lucians to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to prepare for the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season, despite forecasts indicating a potentially less active season than average. As part of its annual preparedness efforts, the Ministry recently convened its 2026 Pre-Hurricane Season Meeting, bringing together heads of departments, health sector officials, and representatives from healthcare institutions across the island. The meeting focused on reviewing the seasonal outlook, assessing national health sector preparedness, identifying priority actions, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and strengthening coordination mechanisms ahead of the hurricane season.
The 2026 hurricane season coincides with the presence of El Niño conditions, a naturally occurring climate phenomenon characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in parts of the Pacific Ocean. While El Niño events are not uncommon, climate experts indicate that rising global temperatures associated with climate change may intensify some of its effects.
These conditions are expected to contribute to:
- Higher-than-normal temperatures
- Reduced rainfall and prolonged dry spells
- Increased risk of drought and water shortages
- Greater occurrences of heat stress and heat-related illnesses
- Increased concentrations of Saharan dust
According to seasonal forecasts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there is an increased likelihood of a less active Atlantic hurricane season due to El Niño conditions. Current projections indicate the possibility of 8 to 14 named storms, 3 to 6 hurricanes and 1 to 3 major hurricanes.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition continues to work closely with the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO), emergency response agencies, healthcare institutions, utility providers, and other critical stakeholders to ensure a coordinated response to any public health emergency or natural disaster. This multi-sectoral approach is essential to ensuring that health services, emergency response operations, and critical infrastructure remain functional before, during, and after severe weather events.
The Ministry advises that hospitals, emergency departments, selected polyclinics, and district hospitals will continue operating to provide essential and emergency healthcare services during severe weather events. However, members of the public are reminded that routine healthcare visits should be completed before the onset of a storm whenever possible.
The Ministry is encouraging all residents to begin preparations early by:
- Developing and reviewing family emergency plans
- Preparing emergency supply kits
- Safeguarding important personal documents
- Maintaining at least a two-week supply of prescription medications
- Securing adequate food and water supplies
- Ensuring batteries, flashlights, radios, and other emergency equipment are functional
- Identifying vulnerable family members who may require additional support during emergencies
- Following official advisories and warnings issued by the Saint Lucia Meteorological Services and NEMO
The Ministry also reminds the public that hurricanes and other emergencies can affect emotional and mental well-being. Anxiety before a storm, stress during an emergency, and feelings of loss or uncertainty afterward are common experiences. Individuals are encouraged to support one another, check on vulnerable family members and neighbours, and seek assistance if they experience emotional distress.
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