Stormy summer ahead for the Caribbean

Experts working for the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have predicted a stormy summer season ahead in the Caribbean. Scientists think there may be up to five large-scale hurricanes heading towards the balmy islands this summer, more than twice the yearly average.

When hurricanes Wilma and Katrina ripped through Mexico and New Orleans, thousands of tourists from all over the world had to be rescued and removed from the regions. The luckier ones had to cancel their plans. Experts are worried that more hurricanes will further depress the tourist industry in the area and keep people closer to home.

Weather patterns have been changing over the years and are becoming increasingly difficult to accurately predict. Even the seasons have changed. Normally the worst months for hurricanes in the Caribbean is from August to September, however last year, the storms raged well into January.

The weather has also changed its geographical scope. Islands that were previously immune to the worst storms are now being hi. Grenada was onc thought to be outside the danger area until it was devastated by Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and by Hurricane Emily in 2005.

Vacations booked through a tour operator and purchased as part of a package are generally the best protected in case a hurricane comes to town. If a storm hits while the vacation is in full swing, the tour operators will evacuate travelers if the situation becomes serious. Operators should also provide refunds for all vacation days spent away from the destination. If a storm hits before your trip, most operators will offer a refund or provide an alternate vacation.

If you didn’t book through a tour operator, you may be in trouble. Many travel insurance companies will not pay for vacation disruption. The Association of British Insurers concurred and said that while there are a few companies who may cover such disruptions, the amount would be small.

If you do head to the Caribbean this summer, be sure to check the weather, and your insurance policy carefully.