The Emergency Measures Organisation is set to meet next week as the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins to warm up.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, said this afternoon: “This is a very familiar time of year for us.

“Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30, and to ensure we have the latest information, we’re convening a meeting with partner agencies to make sure everyone is prepared and ready in the event of a serious storm or hurricane.

“We’ve been advised that forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Centre, a division of the National Weather Service, have predicted above-average hurricane activity this year.”

The NOAA forecast warned that there is a 65 per cent chance of an above-normal season with between 14 and 21 named storms expected.

Of those, between six and ten are forecast to become hurricanes and three to six could become major hurricanes, reaching at least Category 3 strength.

“NOAA provides these ranges with a 70 per cent confidence,” Mr Weeks said. “It’s very important that residents and businesses take the time this month to review their hurricane plans and make sure they refresh their storm supplies.”

He urged homeowners and businesses to ensure that their roof, windows, shutters and doors are in good shape and make repairs.

Mr Weeks also suggested that households should review their hurricane plans and take stock of what medical perceptions are needed to ensure that they have at least a two-week supply at hand.

Households should also ensure they have a hurricane kit with working flash lights, a portable radio with spare batteries, and non-perishable food.

Homeowners are further advised to make sure their house insurance policy is up to date.

The Ministry of National Security will provide a public update after next week’s EMO meeting.