Hurricanes
Tropical depressions and storms that may develop into hurricanes occur in the North Atlantic and Northeast Pacific oceans. The east and Gulf coasts of the United States (including Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas), Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean are the most threatened areas. Extreme weather events of this kind appear to be becoming more frequent and may pose a growing threat in these regions. If you choose to travel during the hurricane season (June to November), you may be affected by these storms.
Hurricanes can cause massive amounts of damage and kill many people. The last two years (2004/5) have seen a sharp increase in both the numbers and the force of hurricanes in the Atlantic/Caribbean region. The most violent of these in 2004/5, including Ivan, Stan, Katrina and Wilma, wreaked widespread havoc, caused billions of pounds in infrastructural damage and resulted in hundreds of fatalities. Many Irish holidaymakers in the region were caught up in the disasters.
Although it is difficult to predict accurately where and when a hurricane can strike, you should think seriously about leaving the area if it seems likely that a hurricane is heading your way. Please be aware that following a hurricane, there may be widespread damage to the infrastructure of the country you are visiting. Past experience has shown that it can take some time for airports to re-open, and there may be serious shortages of habitable accommodation, food and water, and health facilities. Some local governments may maintain emergency shelters for those rendered homeless by a hurricane, but these are primarily designed for the protection of the local population and conditions are likely to be very basic. Our ability to help Irish citizens may be limited (possibly severely) in such circumstances.
If you are in or plan to be in a hurricane region during the hurricane season, you should:
- Confirm travel arrangements prior to departure and ensure that your travel insurance allows for trip cancellation/interruption in the event of a hurricane.
- Ensure that detailed information – including the name of the tour operator, flight details, hotel name, location, room number and telephone numbers, cruise ship details and itineraries – is left with family or friends in Ireland.
- Consider registering with the nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate
- Monitor local news broadcasts and weather reports carefully, follow the advice, including departure orders, of local authorities and/or tour operators.
- Carry details on how to contact the nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate In case of emergency.
Further information on hurricanes and other tropical storms is available on the following U.S. websites:
Federal Emergency Management Agency
