Caribbean bracing for harsh hurricane season
Caribbean countries are bracing for the upcoming hurricane season, which experts have called unusually active. According to reports, the coming season could bring up to six major hurricanes to the region.
The Miami skyline is shrouded in clouds as a cyclist rides along Biscayne Bay at Matheson Hammock Park, Friday, May 15, 2020, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
OAN Newsroom
UPDATED 5:25 PM PT — Friday, May 29, 2020
Caribbean countries are bracing for the upcoming hurricane season, which experts have called unusually active. According to reports, the coming season could bring up to six major hurricanes to the region.
Governments are struggling to keep up with an early season after Hurricane Arthur destroyed areas trying to recover from last year’s Hurricane Dorian.
Experts noted coronavirus measures are hindering disaster responses and believe officials are focusing their attention on treating infected residents.
“This particular year, COVID-19 has put all countries in a position where their physical resources have been dramatically diminished,” said Caribbean Development Bank President Warren Smith.
FILE – In this Sept. 13, 2019 file photo, rain drops cover a car’s window shield prior to the arrival of a new tropical depression, that turned into Tropical Storm Humberto, in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian en route to Mclean’s Town, Grand Bahama, Bahamas. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa, File)
President Trump was briefed on the above average hurricane season earlier this week at the White House. FEMA officials announced the Atlantic hurricane season is expected to have 13 to 19 named storms total.
Very informative briefing with @POTUS, @VP, @DHSgov, @fema, & @NOAA on the forecast, overview, & risks for the 2020 hurricane season, including considerations for response & recovery during #COVID19. Make sure you & your family are prepared for the season: https://t.co/Zd5ezGEHjV pic.twitter.com/OlD0KvIL5u
— Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) May 28, 2020
Despite the ongoing pandemic, FEMA is well-funded this year due to Congress providing an additional $40 billion in funding.
Hurricane activity is expected to pick up during the normal June through November season.