Cayman Islands Enhances Hurricane Readiness with Advanced Storm Surge Mapping Technology

Cayman Islands Enhances Hurricane Readiness with Advanced Storm Surge Mapping Technology

The Cayman Islands is taking a major leap forward in hurricane preparedness, thanks to new technology from the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Local agencies—the Cayman Islands National Weather Service (CINWS) and Hazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI)—have teamed up with NOAA to use its latest “Hazard Services” platform. This powerful system has enabled the creation of detailed storm surge inundation maps specifically for the Cayman Islands.

These flood maps were developed using a beta version of the International Storm Surge Scenario Viewer, a cutting-edge online tool. The viewer provides high-resolution mapping and wave analysis, allowing forecasters and emergency managers to better predict which areas are at risk for flooding during tropical storms and hurricanes. It is a significant upgrade over previous forecasting and planning tools.

During the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, meteorologists and disaster management specialists in Cayman are evaluating how this new tool can improve storm surge forecasting, evacuation planning, and public warnings.

What the Experts say:

John Tibbetts, Director General of the Cayman Islands National Weather Service, states:

“We are committed to using the latest scientific advances to keep residents and visitors safe. Storm surge and flooding are some of the most serious hazards we face during hurricanes, and new forecasting tools like this can truly transform our preparedness.”

Dani Coleman, Director of Hazard Management Cayman Islands, says:

“Our ongoing partnerships with regional and international agencies, including NOAA, mean we can provide more accurate, timely information to the public and authorities when it really matters.”

CINWS Meteorologist Shamal Clarke explains:

“This model lets us examine different storm surge scenarios based on a storm’s angle, category, forward speed, and tide. The more detail we have, the better we can communicate risk and give clear recommendations for areas that are most vulnerable.”

Staying Informed

Cayman residents are encouraged to stay up to date with official weather forecasts by visiting weather.gov.ky and following @caymanprepared on social media.

To learn more about the International Storm Surge Scenario Viewer, visit nhc.noaa.gov/surge/international/.