The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season has begun, with three named storms already recorded so far. The Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) is strongly urging all residents and visitors of the Turks and Caicos Islands to continue to take proactive steps to prepare for the possibility of a major storm or hurricane.
The season began with Tropical Storm Andrea, which formed on 24th June and remained over the open waters of the central Atlantic Ocean before dissipating. Tropical Storm Barry followed on 28th June, making landfall in southeastern Mexico and causing significant flooding. Most recently, Tropical Storm Chantal developed between 4 – 6 July and brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and a reported tornado to coastal areas of South Carolina in the USA, causing property damage and disruption.
As we move closer to the peak of hurricane season, DDME is reminding the general public that it only takes one storm to create widespread devastation. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted an above-average season due to increased atmospheric moisture and warmer ocean temperatures. Every household, business, and visitor must be storm-ready.
The Turks and Caicos Islands are surrounded by water and we must remember all of the risks to ensure that we are prepared. We also take the time to remind beach goers and marine operators to review daily weather advisories and use sound judgement before going into the water. Coastal and Marine Hazards can include:
- Storm surges
- Rip currents
- Coastal erosion
- High surf and dangerous waves and
- Disruption to marine activities
Tropical systems can bring life-threatening conditions. Some of the major risks that heavy rainfall and strong winds can bring to The Turks and Caicos Islands include:
- Flash flooding and road washouts
- Damage to the causeway
- Water damage and structural damage to homes, businesses and infrastructure
- Contamination of drinking/tap water
- Increased risk of accidental drowning
- Uprooted trees and flying debris
- Full disruption of communications, electricity, city water, cable and internet
- Inability to access critical services
- Road blockages and dangerous driving conditions
DDME will continue to monitor all storm activity closely in collaboration with The Bahamas Department of Meteorology and The Turks and Caicos Islands National Weather Service and keep the public updated on storms that can potentially impact The Turks and Caicos Islands.
Remember: It only takes one storm. “Plan ahead, stay ahead” this 2025 Hurricane Season.
Click HERE to view the DDME Disaster Supplies Checklist.
Follow The Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies and the Turks and Caicos Islands National Weather Service on social media for updates. Download the DDME Alert App from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store for real-time alerts.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_K2OZe2wbZFsQfJh2z60gvrfpvVu3LQ_/view?usp=gmail
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