Port-au-Prince, June 1, 2023 : The General Directorate of Civil Protection (DGPC) and the National Disaster Risk Management System (SNGRD) announce to the Haitian population in general, and to the press in particular, the opening of the 2023 hurricane season from June 1, which will end on November 30 this year.
For this year, the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center of the United States Oceanic and Atmospheric Monitoring Agency (NOAA) predicts a relatively normal hurricane season. Compared to previous years, this season should be less active due to several factors, including the return of the El Niño climatic phenomenon in the Atlantic area. With this phenomenon, the development of storms could follow a downward trajectory due to its ability to weaken cyclonic activities. However, the manifestation of El Niño will cause heat waves which will increase the temperature of the ambient air.
Nevertheless, the number of systems to watch between June 1 and November 30, 2023 decreases relatively, from 12 to 17 named storms, of which 5 to 9 could develop into hurricanes, of which 1 to 4 could be major. This suggests that despite NOAA’s reassuring forecasts, cyclonic hydrometeorological phenomena will still be forming and may occur at any time in the northern Atlantic area, particularly in the Caribbean.
While the country is facing a difficult socio-political situation, the National Risk Management System is preparing to face this hurricane season. This time of year generates both a certain concern in the most vulnerable communities and a mobilization of the SNGRD to strengthen preparedness, promote solidarity and resilience in the face of imminent natural events.
Through various activities already carried out and others in progress, civil protection and its national and international partners are working in collaboration with local communities in order to increase information and awareness-raising actions on the multiple risks that can affect the most exposed communities. .
The hurricane season affects authorities and relief organizations, but also every member of the community. It is therefore important for civil protection that everyone is aware of the potential risks and the measures to be taken to protect themselves and their families in the event of an emergency. This is why civil protection has set out to carry out simulation exercises, training and strengthening local structures throughout the country.
At the start of the 2023 hurricane season, Civil Protection encourages all actors in the system and partners working in risk management to continue to strengthen their capacities in terms of preparation, information and intervention in this context. manifestation of multiple hazards.
The DGPC asks the entire population to stay informed of the latest weather forecasts and to follow the instructions of the local authorities in order to react appropriately in the event of a possible manifestation of a cyclone or any other natural risk which could constitute a major challenge for their security.
Let’s join forces against hydrometeorological hazards in Haiti: Resilience, Preparedness, Solidarity!”
Pwoteksyon Sivil is all tied up!
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Tèm: Nan tan siklòn, nou pi djanm ansanm, an n prepare nou!