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Cancun authorities have issued new instructions and tips to keep visitors safe from tropical storms as the Mexican Caribbean heads into a particularly active hurricane season this year. Up to 20 tropical storms are projected to form over the Caribbean this summer, with several expected to develop into strong hurricanes. Thanks to the state’s color-coded warning system, visitors can stay up to date on necessary precautions, and Cancun hotels are well-prepared for potential storms.
June 1 marked the beginning of the hurricane season in the Mexican Caribbean. As part of its civil protection strategy, the local government has issued several recommendations to keep residents and visitors aware of essential hurricane safety tips.
Cancun relies on a 5-level hurricane alert system, with each level having its own color according to the storm’s severity. The blue warning represents the lowest threat level, and when issued, visitors should pay close attention to the weather forecast and authorities’ instructions. A green alert indicates a minor danger level, and residents should tape windows and secure objects which could be knocked over by strong winds. Hotels, too, may restrict certain activities at this stage in order to prevent damage from occurring.
Meanwhile, a yellow or moderate alert points to a more imminent threat, and at this stage, visitors should be aware of the nearest hurricane shelter. Moreover, authorities recommend residents stock up on food and water as well as emergency equipment. If an orange alert is issued, risk zones are evacuated and residents are asked to head to the nearest shelter. Visitors should be especially wary of coastal zones as water levels may rise at short notice.
The red alert implies the highest danger level and visitors should stay indoors and as far away as possible from windows and await the all-clear from authorities.
The first named hurricane this season – hurricane Agatha, a category two storm – caused heavy rains and localized flooding in parts of Cancun in May. Minor damage was reported in parts of the city, but fortunately, the area wasn’t in the direct path of the hurricane.
Tropical storms form over the Caribbean sea and become hurricanes when they reach a wind speed of 74 miles per hour or more. Due to Cancun’s location along the Mexican coastline, several powerful storms are predicted to impact the area between June and November, potentially damaging houses and affecting travelers.
Tourists headed to Cancun during the hurricane season should routinely check the weather forecast for hurricane warnings. Visitors staying at resorts can also familiarise themselves with the establishment’s hurricane protocols, which are updated yearly together with state and government officials.
Cancun Hotels Prepared For Hurricane Season
Cancun is by far the most popular destination in Quintana Roo for international visitors, who flock there for its all-inclusive resorts and tropical beaches. Its hotels have also been taking measures to prepare for this year’s hurricane season, which officially began on June 1.
According to Suárez Camacho, the director of the civil protection coordination agency “We are continuing to prepare and fine-tune details for this hurricane season jointly with Governor Carlos Joaquín. We are working with private sector operators as well as State institutions with the goal of mitigating and reducing incidents and managing risks” he said in a statement to Cancunmio.
The Riviera Maya Hotel Association, which brings together 140 hotels in the area, routinely updates its members on best practices to ensure employees are well-prepared to deal with natural catastrophes. Each hotel has its own civil protection plan, which details the location of nearby storm shelters, evacuation routes, as well as first aid protocols.
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