The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to the Hurricane Season which lasts through November 2023.
Hurricane Season in the Atlantic began June 1 and runs through November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center expects the 2023 season to be near-normal or average. NOAA predicts that the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season will produce:
- 12 to 17 storms
- 5 to 9 hurricanes
- 1 to 4 major hurricanes
What can you do ahead of Hurricane Season?
Get ready:
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates. Encourage your friends and family to register as well if they plan to travel outside of the United States.
Be aware that in the event of a hurricane, you may not be able to depart the area for 24-48 hours or longer. Roads may be washed out or obstructed by debris, adversely affecting access to airports and land routes out of affected areas.
Obtain travel insurance to cover unexpected expenses, including health emergencies and evacuations. If a situation requires an evacuation from an overseas location, the U.S. Department of State may work with commercial airlines to ensure that U.S. citizens can depart as safely and efficiently as possible. Under U.S. law, any evacuation costs are your responsibility.
Organize a kit of essential items in a waterproof container, including: Bottled water, any medications taken regularly, non-perishable food, battery powered radio, vital documents – especially passports. Avoid driving, if possible, during a storm as road conditions can be especially dangerous in storm conditions.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and NOAA have additional tips on their websites:
Stay informed:
Monitor local radio, local media, and the National Hurricane Center (https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/) to be aware of weather developments.
Inform your friends and family of your whereabouts. Remain in close contact with your tour operator, hotel staff and local officials for evacuation instructions during a weather emergency.
Additional information on hurricanes and storm preparedness can be found on the Department’s “Hurricanes, Typhoons, and Cyclones” webpage.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy San Jose
Calle 98 Via 104, Pavas, San Jose, Costa Rica
Emergencies: +506 2519-2000
Non-emergency inquiries: ACSSanJose@state.gov
Website: https://cr.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Contact the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs
1-888-407-4747 toll-free from the United States and Canada
1-202-501-4444 from other countries
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
Source : Usembassy
