Hurricane season begins: what you need to know and how to prepare for it

Santo Domingo.- June 1 marks the official start of the 2025 Cyclonic Season in the Atlantic, a period that extends until November 30 and is expected to be one of the most active.

According to a report from the Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) forecasts an average of between 16 and 17 named tropical storms; of these, at least nine could reach the hurricane category, and at least four would be of great intensity.

Likewise, the Emergency Operations Center (COE) carried out a simulation of a category 4 hurricane, called “Jaguar Sentinel 2025”, with the support of the U.S. Southern Command to update the Contingency Plan and test the phases of preparation and response to a natural phenomenon of this magnitude.

What should you know?
Have a basic emergency kit: drinking water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, medicines, copies of important documents, and portable chargers are essential.

Check your home: Ensure the roof is in good condition, prune trees near your house, and clean gutters and drains. If you live in a high-risk area, identify the nearest shelter.

Follow official sources: Indomet, the COE (Emergency Operations Center), and the Civil Defense are the institutions responsible for issuing verified and updated information.

COE Recommendations
During the hurricane season in the Dominican Republic, the Emergency Operations Center (COE) urges the following recommendations to the population before, during, and after a hurricane.

Before a hurricane, people should prepare by securing their homes, refueling their vehicles, and having emergency supplies such as a first aid kit, a radio, and extra batteries. During a hurricane, seeking shelter in a safe interior room or basement, away from windows and doors, is crucial. After the hurricane, people should stay informed about the situation, assess damage to their homes and infrastructure, and evacuate stagnant water to prevent mosquito infestations. 

According to the regulations established by the Emergency Operations Center (COE), an emergency kit should contain the following items, and we list the price consulted in Farmacias Hidalgo and Ferreteria Ochoa:

First Aid Kit

Bandage Pack: Elastic Bandages 6×5 Farmacoal – RD$75
Alcohol: Alcohol Isopropyl Alcohol Megax 4oz – RD$ 99.96
Hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide 10V 3% 120ML Collado – RD$115
Band-Aids: Band-Aids Cureband Stand X 30 – RD$79.53
Latex Gloves: Latex Gloves American Medium X 100 – RD$7.66
Tools and supplies

Flashlight: Flashlight 12V – RD$2,840
Portable Radio: Steren Radio System – RD$492
Lighter: Zengaz Lighter – RD$278
Durable rope: C ERICKSON flat bungee cord – RD$322
Whistle: C Weston Whistle – RD$128
Keep your supplies in an easy-to-carry emergency preparedness kit that you can use at home or take with you in case you must evacuate.

Depending on your family’s requirements, you may need to include medical care items, baby supplies, pet supplies, and other things, such as extra house and car keys.