Jamaica Braces for Hurricane Season 2026 – Stay Alert

Kingston, Jamaica – As we roll into 2026, the weather talk on every corner is about the upcoming hurricane season. The Met Office has already put out its first advisory, and it’s not looking like a walk in the park. Starting June 1, we’re expecting an above-average season, with forecasts pointing to 18 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major ones. That’s a serious uptick from last year.

Last week, I caught up with Miss Patricia, a market vendor in Papine, who told me, "Mi nuh tek no chances. Mi already stock up on batteries, canned food, and mi check mi roof. Last year we get off easy, but dis year mi feel it in mi bones – we haffi ready." Miss Patricia’s been selling vegetables for 20 years, and she knows the signs.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is already moving. They’ve identified 250 shelters across the island, from Portland to Westmoreland. In Kingston, the central shelter at the National Arena can hold up to 5,000 people. But NEMA boss Mr. Richard Thompson says, "We need every Jamaican to have a personal plan. Don’t wait until the sirens blow." He’s urging folks to trim trees, clear gutters, and secure loose items around the yard.

On the business side, hotels in Montego Bay and Negril are updating their evacuation plans. The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association says they’re training staff on emergency protocols. For us regular folks, the advice is simple: have at least 7 days of food and water, a first aid kit, and a battery-powered radio.

Last year, we had Hurricane Rafael brush past the south coast, causing minor flooding in St. Elizabeth. But this season, the Caribbean Sea is warmer than usual, which means storms can strengthen fast. The Met Office says we should pay close attention to the period from August to October – that’s when the big ones usually come.

Here’s the practical takeaway: don’t panic, but do prepare. Write down your emergency contacts, know your nearest shelter, and keep your important documents in a waterproof bag. Check on elderly neighbours and family in low-lying areas. As Miss Patricia says, "We are Jamaicans – we strong. But strong and ready is even better."

Stay tuned to HowJamaica.com for updates as the season develops. We’ll keep you posted on every storm that comes our way.

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