This year, NOAA predicts:
- 8–14 named storms
- 3–6 forecast to become hurricanes
- 1–3 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5)
Major hurricanes can have devastating consequences. They may result in widespread power outages, blocked access roads, and severely damaged residential areas, potentially rendering homes uninhabitable for days, weeks, or even months.
As residents and business owners on a small island, it is crucial that we adopt a comprehensive and proactive approach to preparedness. This includes planning for the full range of hurricane hazards: high winds, storm surges, heavy rainfall, flooding, landslides, and rip currents.
Our collective readiness will make a significant difference in how we weather these storms and recover afterwards. Prepare your properties and ensure you have emergency supplies in place.
In preparation for the anticipated 2026 hurricane season, the Disaster Management Organisation has undertaken the following:
- Raising awareness and preparedness within our community via social media and the Government Facebook page
- Tabletop training exercises, held before the official start of the hurricane season in the Netherlands
- A delegation from St. Eustatius, including Deputy Governor S. Hassell, participated in the annual Governor's Hurricane Conference (GHC) in the USA in May 2026. Participants attended a series of training sessions and workshops aimed at strengthening the island's disaster response
- Our participation in the GHC conference highlights Statia's commitment to strengthening our disaster preparedness and resilience. By learning from experts and peers, we aim to implement best practices that will enhance our community's safety and well-being in the face of hurricanes and other natural disasters
- An upcoming annual hurricane exercise, planned for mid-June, together with the Ministry of Defence
Recently, KNMI (the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute) carried out an upgrade to its online weather system, which will allow our local Disaster Management Organisation to monitor potential weather threats to our island. The primary aim of this system is to mitigate and minimise risks and hazards.
Despite the various challenges we face, the Disaster Management Organisation remains committed to ensuring the safety, security and well-being of our public, private sector and NGOs. We also ask for your prayers on our behalf, that God would grant us wisdom and safekeeping during the 2026 hurricane season.
As a precautionary measure, we urge the public to take the necessary steps to prepare for the 2026 hurricane season and to adhere to the instructions and advisories issued by the local authorities (Public Entity of St. Eustatius).
In conclusion, I would like to thank the public for their cooperation, support and understanding during the 2025 hurricane season, and I look forward to continued good cooperation in 2026.
