Bahamas Hurricane Season: When is it and How to Prepare [2024] -

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President & CEO at Better Homes and Gardens MCR Bahamas

Carey is recognized as one of The Bahamas’ most respected real estate professionals. He holds the record of selling the largest beachfront property of $21 million (vacant land) in the Bahamas and has also been the Top Producer of real estate transactions in Ocean Club Estates. With over 30 years of sales experience, Carey founded MCR in 2008 and now employs an elite team of 25 highly skilled associates.

When is Hurricane Season in The Bahamas?

The Bahamas hurricane season is generally expected to last from June through November. During this time, the region becomes susceptible to hurricanes. However, the intensity and frequency of hurricanes varies from year to year.

Best Time to Visit The Bahamas

The best time to visit The Bahamas is from mid-December to mid-April, during the winter and spring when temperatures are cooler. This is the peak season for tourism, so expect higher prices for hotels, tours, and travel. But if you have your very own luxury oceanfront property to call home, you won’t have to worry about advance resort booking.

If you’re considering investing in real estate in The Bahamas, the team at MCR Bahamas, with their deep knowledge of the luxury real estate market, is here to guide you through every step of the process. Whether you’re looking for a luxury condo or even your own land to build the home of your dreams, we help you make informed decisions and find the perfect property to suit your needs.

Discover MCR Bahamas’ luxury real estate listings!

Areas Most Affected by Hurricanes in The Bahamas

According to World Data Info, hurricanes impact The Bahamas approximately seven times a year. The frequency and intensity of these hurricanes vary by region.

The Abaco Islands, often referred to as “the hurricane capital of the world,” are considered the most affected area. West Grand Bahama also falls into this high-risk category.

The good news, however, is that the hurricanes often alter their course before reaching the islands, so they don’t always directly hit The Bahamas. Nonetheless, the remnants of these storms can still bring rain and strong winds to the area.

It is always advised to keep an eye on the weather before planning to visit these regions.

How to Prepare for Bahamas Hurricane Season

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We can’t control Mother Nature but we can take certain precautions to help ensure our safety. Let’s discuss the steps you can take to be as prepared as possible during Bahamas hurricane season.

Sign Up for Emergency Alerts

Staying informed with emergency alerts is critical, especially during hurricane season in The Bahamas. The Bahamas Department of Meteorology provides real-time weather alerts, and information is also accessible via local television news outlets and the Facebook page, Bahamas Weather Alert.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Committee, composed of representatives from relevant government ministries, departments, and the private sector, coordinates emergency alerts and messaging, with an emphasis on being properly prepared for a hurricane or other disaster.

If you are a US citizen traveling to The Bahamas, the US Department of State launched the “Smart Traveler Enrollment Program” (STEP) that helps you to enroll your trip with the closest US embassy or consulate. This way, you can stay directly informed by the embassy to make your travel safe. This program also assists you in getting in touch with friends and family in case of emergency.

Consider Insurance

Whether enjoying a vacation or you reside permanently in The Bahamas, it’s smart to research your insurance options. Two plans to consider include travel insurance and flood insurance.

Travel insurance: While it’s no longer mandatory that all travelers have this insurance to enter The Bahamas, it’s still a wise move. Travel insurance covers trip interruptions and cancellations due to harsh climate conditions, offering a safety net in case your trip gets disrupted by a hurricane.

Flood insurance: If you own property in The Bahamas, you’ll want to be covered for flooding. Due to the archipelagic nature of the region, risks of flooding in hurricane season are high. This insurance covers buildings along with its contents, so it is quite beneficial to keep you, your home, and your possessions safe.

In both situations, understanding the nature and coverage of your insurance policy, and the way to claim is essential. Insurance provides peace of mind in unexpected scenarios like hurricanes. Always remember that it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Establish an Evacuation Plan

Whether you’re vacationing or residing in The Bahamas, having a well-prepared evacuation plan is crucial during hurricane season. Most hotels and resorts have established evacuation procedures for natural disasters like hurricanes.

Be sure to inquire about their protocols and familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and designated safe areas within the property. In severe cases, hotels and resorts may prioritize early evacuation to ensure guest safety. It’s essential to monitor conditions at Bahamas airports closely as closures and flight disruptions are common during hurricane seasons.

For residents, creating a personal evacuation plan is essential. This plan should outline safe areas and exits within your home and detail steps for evacuating if staying becomes unsafe. Stay informed about your community’s hurricane evacuation routes and nearest shelters. If you live in an oceanfront property, consider planning for an early evacuation to ensure your safety.

Secure Your Home

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The first steps toward ensuring hurricane safety happen before the storm. Preparing for hurricanes well in advance will help keep you safe. Secure your home in the following ways:

Windows and doors: Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood to protect against flying debris and high winds.
Roof: Inspect and repair your roof. Ensure shingles or tiles are secure and check for any potential leaks.
Gutters and drains: Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage and flooding.
Garage doors: Reinforce garage doors as they can be vulnerable to high winds. Consider installing a brace or using a storm-rated door.
Foundation: If you’re in a flood-prone area, elevate your home or add sandbags around the foundation to prevent water intrusion.
Yard and outdoor items: Secure or bring outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that can become projectiles inside.
Trees and landscaping: Trim trees and remove any branches that could fall on your home. Ensure landscaping is well-maintained to avoid debris accumulation.
Backup power: Consider having a generator for power outages. Ensure it is installed correctly and safely.
Fuel and water: Keep a supply of fuel for your generator and store extra water for drinking and sanitation.
Emergency kit: Prepare a kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, batteries, flashlights, a first-aid kit, and a battery-powered radio.

Create a Communication Plan

Having a robust communication plan is crucial during hurricane season in The Bahamas. The plan should consider the types of devices you’ll access in an emergency, who to contact, and account for potential power or cell tower outages. Here are the steps you can take to develop a strong communication plan:

Identify key contacts: Keep a list of important contacts, including family, friends, neighbors and emergency services. List phone numbers as well as email addresses. Keep a physical copy of this list in a waterproof container, and a digital copy on multiple devices.
Phone and text: Ensure everyone has a working cell phone and backup chargers. Text messages are often more reliable than voice calls during emergencies.
Email and social media: Use email and social media platforms to send updates and check in. Ensure everyone knows how to access these accounts.
Two-way radios: Consider setting up two-way radios if cell phone service is unreliable in your area.
Plan for power outages: Have backup power sources, like a generator, and ensure everyone knows how to use them. Keep battery-powered devices and chargers available for communication if power is lost.
Develop a check-in system: Establish a schedule for regular check-ins with your primary contact person. This helps ensure that everyone is accounted for. Agree on an emergency signal or code word to use if you need to convey urgent information quickly.
Inform others of your plan: Share the communication plan with all family members and friends so they know what to do and whom to contact.

After the hurricane passes, evaluate the effectiveness of your plan and make any necessary adjustments for future emergencies.

Prepare for Pet Care

Don’t forget to take precautions for any furry friends you may have, too. Plan ahead for situations where you might have to evacuate your pet.

Start by ensuring your pet has a microchip with up-to-date emergency contact information, which can help reunite you if you get separated. Prepare an emergency kit for your pet that includes food, water, a litter box, medications, veterinary records, a carrier, and comfort items.

Identify pet-friendly accommodations and shelters in advance, as not all shelters accept pets. Be aware that some shelters may require vaccination certificates, so include these with your pet’s records.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure your pets are safe and well-cared for during an emergency.

Document Everything

Before a hurricane, you should maintain a comprehensive record of your possessions. If you are a homeowner, take photos and videos of your home to show the insurance company in case of any damages. These visuals are crucial to prove sustained damages and file claims.

For high-value items, keep payment receipts and appraisals in a secure but accessible place.

More About Bahamas Hurricane Season

Below are the answers to some of the most common questions related to The Bahamas’ hurricane season.

What month do most hurricanes hit The Bahamas?

Hurricane season in The Bahamas runs from June 1st to November 30th, with intensified activity typically observed in August, September, October, and November. Staying updated with weather forecasts and taking necessary precautions during these months is highly advisable.

What months are best to go to The Bahamas?

The best time to visit or live in The Bahamas is from December to April, thanks to mild temperatures, minimal rainfall, and low humidity. This period is also the peak tourist season. For a hassle-free stay, contact MCR Bahamas to help you choose your dream property for either a short-term or long-term stay.

We offer a range of luxury homes and properties for sale or rent, catering to various preferences. Our team can provide you with insights regarding the average rental price in The Bahamas and more to help you make an informed decision.

Whether you’re looking to rent a private island or buy a luxury condo, MCR Bahamas has numerous options to assist.

How likely are hurricanes in The Bahamas?

Due to its geographic location, The Bahamas is vulnerable to hurricanes. On average, The Bahamas experiences hurricanes about seven times a year. Frequency and intensity can vary by area and year as well.

Which Bahamas island is safest from hurricanes?

There isn’t a single Bahamas island which is completely resistant to hurricanes. However, there are two islands shown to have had fewer hurricane encounters: Inagua and Mayaguana Islands.

Be Prepared for Bahamas Hurricane Season

The Bahamas is enriched with a unique culture and breathtaking landscapes, offering a marvelous experience for both residents and visitors. But like many islands in the Caribbean, The Bahamas is no stranger to hurricanes, and knowing how to prepare and take precautions can allow you to enjoy your stay safely.

Whether you’re interested in a short-term or more permanent stay in The Bahamas, consider MCR Bahamas to help you find the home of your dreams. MCR Bahamas will guide you through the process of finding the ideal luxury property in some of the best places to live in The Bahamas.

Start your luxury property search today with MCR Bahamas!

Bahamas Hurricane Season: When is it and How to Prepare [2024]