The U.S. Embassy in Port of Spain has issued a warning to U.S. citizens regarding the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) anticipates an above-normal hurricane season this year, predicting "13-19 named storms, 6-10 hurricanes, and 3-5 major hurricanes."
The embassy advises individuals to prepare for potential tropical storms and hurricanes by taking several precautionary measures. Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is recommended for receiving alerts. Travelers are also encouraged to obtain travel insurance that covers unexpected expenses such as health emergencies and evacuations.
In preparation for possible hurricanes, the embassy suggests storing emergency supplies like potable water, dry and canned goods, sanitation supplies, flashlights with spare batteries, a battery-powered radio, tools for repairs post-storm, a manual can opener, duct tape, and maintaining a car with a full tank of gasoline.
Key documents such as passports with extra photos, ID cards, medical records including birth certificates, powers of attorney, wills, marriage certificates, bank books and bond receipts should be stored safely in zip-lock bags to protect them from damage.
For communication preparedness during storms or warnings: "Regularly charge all cell phones" and backup essential data on USB thumb drives or SD cards. It's advised to unplug computers from electrical outlets during the storm.
During hurricane warnings: secure outdoor items like lawn furniture; move furnishings away from windows; fill clean water containers; check vehicle tires and fuel; trim trees near power lines; eat a large meal before the storm hits; identify safe areas at home or nearby shelters designated by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.
Once the storm begins: close windows and doors until it passes completely; stay indoors in interior rooms with minimal windows; keep children within sight; turn off main electric circuit breakers.
Afterwards: avoid going outside unless necessary due to potential hazards like downed power lines or debris.
For further information on hurricanes affecting this region visit http://www.nhc.noaa.gov or consult local agencies such as ODPM (Office of Disaster Preparedness Management) at https://odpm.gov.tt/ or TEMA (Tobago Emergency Management Agency) at http://www.tema365.com/web/.
Assistance is available through U.S Embassy Port of Spain's Consular Section - American Citizens Services located at 2 Marli Street Newtown Trinidad & Tobago via routine inquiries +1(868)235-4500 emergencies +1(868)622-6371 pressing option one non-emergency inquiries email TrinidadandTobago.ACS@gdit-gss.com website tt.usembassy.gov social media platforms Facebook X(formerly Twitter), Instagram contact State Department’s Bureau Consular Affairs toll-free number United States Canada dialling international numbers +12025014444 enroll Smart Traveler Enrollment Program receive security updates specific country information about Trinidad & Tobago