ACTIVE ALERTHURRICANE SEASON ACTIVE
DEM Barbados crest

DEM BARBADOS

Dept. of Emergency Management

Public Awareness

Hurricane Season.

The Annual Atlantic Hurricane Season commences June 1 and ends on November 30.

Satellite view of a hurricane over the ocean
Satellite imagery of a hurricane system in the Atlantic.

The Hurricane Hazard

The Annual Atlantic Hurricane Season commences June 1 and ends on November 30. Tropical Storms and Hurricanes are caused by a combination of warm tropical oceans, light winds and moisture along with pre-existing weather disturbances.

Hurricanes bring heavy rain, strong winds and large waves which often damage many homes, cars, buildings and trees.

Hurricanes are grouped into 5 categories, which tell you how strong they are. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is a 1-5 rating which is based on the present intensity of the hurricane. Wind speed is the determining factor in the scale. Category 5 hurricanes are the strongest. Hurricanes have wind speeds of 74 mph or more, and their winds spin in an anti-clockwise direction around the centre (“eye”) of the hurricane.

Hurricane and Storm Alerts

The Department of Emergency Management issues a graduated series of alerts as a weather system develops. Understand each level so you can respond at the right time.

  • Bulletin

    Issued when a significant weather system is detected in the area.

  • Advisory

    Issued at regular intervals when a tropical storm or hurricane is first detected in the area.

  • Watch

    Issued when the hurricane continues its advance and hurricane conditions are a real possibility within 48 hours; it does not mean that they are imminent.

  • Warning

    Issued when it is established that hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours.

Hurricane Preparedness ChecklistHurricane Hazard Details