The land of Sunshine and Hurricanes

Cayman Islands, the land of sunshine, beautiful sunsets, sandy beachs and hurricanes… The hurricane season this year, officially started on 1 June 2008 and ends on 30 November 2008. When I first arrived in the Cayman Islands in November last year, I was fortunate enough to have just missed Hurricane Dean, so I have yet to experience a hurricane in the Cayman Islands (not that I am waiting for it in eager anticipation). With Hurricane Fay approaching (although it may miss Grand Cayman), I now know what all the fuss is about when it comes to hurricanes in the caribbean. Today, at the office, I received my Hurricane information “be-prepared” booklet (we have a group of people in the office that monitor hurricane activity and advise the staff accordingly). The booklet details everything you need to know about the dangers of hurricanes, the supllies that you need to stock, protecting your property and choosing a safe shelter. It is a must-read, if you are on the island during the hurricane season.

The last major hurricane to hit the Cayman Islands was Hurricane Ivan in 2004, this had a devastating effect on Cayman Islands and other Caribbean countries such as Grenada. In fact, those that were on island during that Hurricane still talk about “Ivan” with a certain hint of fear in their eyes. In fact, when selling a car most people will state the fact that the car was imported post-Hurricane Ivan as a value add. This means that any car that was on island during the hurricane would be less desirable as a purchase than a car that was brought onto the island after hurricane Ivan.

If you are on island during this hurricane season, please read CaymanPrepared, it could save your life…