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Authorities are warning residents and tourists to be on alert as the Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean head into the beginning of the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. Although June and July saw rather calm weather conditions, meteorologists are forecasting several strong hurricanes to hit the area over the next few months, with up to 90% of all hurricanes in the Mexican Caribbean typically occurring in the period spanning from late August throughout October.
Mid-August marks the beginning of the strongest phase of the Atlantic hurricane season when the most powerful hurricanes are more likely to develop. Lasting until October, the peak of the hurricane season brings with it more rain and humidity, as well as a stronger likelihood of powerful tropical storms. As a result, the National Meteorological Service has said that as of this week, favorable conditions will make it easier for hurricanes to form, which may potentially reach the Mexican Caribbean.
As Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean inch towards the peak of the hurricane seasons, meteorologists will be on the watch for signs of brewing storms. Fortunately, the past months haven’t turned out to be quite as severe as initially forecasted, with only several tropical storms reaching the area. However, meteorologists expect at least one tropical storm – potentially a hurricane – to occur in the Mexican Caribbean during August. Meanwhile, travelers headed to Cancun in the months of September and October should be prepared for possible hurricanes, which can disrupt travel plans and lead to evacuations.
Historical data shows that August, September, and October see the risk for tropical storms and hurricanes grow strongly in the area. Luckily, forecasting models allow plenty of time for visitors to prepare themselves should the likelihood of a hurricane grow. Moreover, authorities at the state and national levels have taken several steps to prepare hurricane-prone areas for worst-case scenarios. As for travelers, hotels have their own contingency plans that detail how to protect tourists should a hurricane hit.
According to long-term weather forecasts released earlier this year, Cancun could see up to 16 to 20 named storms and between six and ten hurricanes over the Atlantic hurricane season, which began in June. Out of those, between three and five are forecast to reach category three or above, with winds of more than 111 miles per hour.
Cancun has been hit by several significant tropical storms this year, including the category 2 hurricane Agatha, which caused flooding and resulted in minor damage to infrastructure. The intensity of this year’s hurricane season largely depends on the La Nina weather phenomena, which can increase the likelihood of strong hurricane formations over the Atlantic.
Keep This In Mind If A Hurricane Hits Cancun
Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean are no strangers to hurricanes. As a result, state authorities have published a color-coded hurricane warning system to keep residents and visitors updated on what to do if a hurricane strikes. From closely monitoring authorities’ instructions to seeking immediate shelter, the guidance is designed to give visitors a picture of what to expect during the hurricane season.
If you’re staying in a hotel or resort, make sure to familiarize yourself with the establishment’s hurricane protocol. Cancun’s hotel association organizes routine training for its members, which are obligated to have measures in place to ensure evacuation routes and other safety measures. If staying at a private vacation rental, make sure you have necessary emergency supplies including food, water, as well as batteries, and access to a radio.
It’s also a good idea to check the National Meteorological Agency’s weather forecast, and to keep an eye on hurricane warnings. Several U.S-based weather services are also useful for tracking potential hurricanes, such as Accuweather.
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