Hurricanes are powerful heat engines fueled by warm ocean waters (typically 26.5°C or warmer), where evaporation and condensation create a self-sustaining storm system. When surface winds converge and rotate due to the Coriolis effect, a low-pressure system forms, drawing in more moisture and intensifying the storm.
The Cayman Islands, located in the western Caribbean, are especially vulnerable to rapid intensification, where hurricanes can strengthen by 35+ mph in 24 hours. This occurs when storms encounter deep warm water, low wind shear, and high moisture. Hurricane Paloma’s jump from tropical storm to Category 4 in just 40 hours highlights how quickly threats can escalate in our region.
The Atlantic hurricane season presents a recurring and serious threat to the Cayman Islands, with our greatest vulnerability typically falling between mid-August and early October. During this period, the warm Caribbean waters can fuel powerful storms capable of bringing widespread devastation. We’ve seen this firsthand—Hurricane Ivan in 2004 caused an estimated CI$2.86 billion in damage, while Hurricane Paloma in 2008 left lasting impacts on our infrastructure and communities.
While advancements in forecasting have improved early warnings, tropical cyclones remain notoriously unpredictable. The National Hurricane Center’s five-day forecast cone is accurate roughly two-thirds of the time, but storms can still shift course, strengthen with little notice, or deliver severe hazards like storm surges, coastal erosion, high winds, heavy swells, and inland flooding—even if the eye never passes directly over us.
That’s why it’s absolutely essential that all residents of the Cayman Islands take preparedness seriously.
To help you plan and protect what matters most, the eCayStormReady Hurricane Supplement is now available. This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the tools and information you need to weather the season safely. Inside, you’ll find preparedness checklists, emergency contact numbers, shelter locations, storm tracking guidance, and expert advice tailored specifically for our islands.
The eCayStormReady Hurricane Supplement has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of the community-minded companies featured within. Their support ensures this important resource is available to everyone across the Cayman Islands.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—get storm ready today. Sign up today to receive a copy of the Hurricane Preparedness Newsletter.
