The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a new travel update for Brits planning trips to the United States, alerting them to the latest hurricane season predictions.
In a post on X on August 18, the FCDO directed travellers to familiarise themselves with the updated advice, which is available on the 'safety and security' page on GOV.UK. The message said: "Read our latest travel advice for updated information about US Hurricane season predictions."
Hurricane season details
According to the FCDO, the Atlantic hurricane season normally runs from June to November, while the Pacific hurricane season normally runs from May to November. Hurricanes can affect coastal regions, Hawaii and Guam. The South Pacific tropical cyclone season normally runs from November to May and can affect American Samoa.
The guidance continued: "The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) seasonal outlook predicts a 'below-normal Atlantic hurricane season' and an "above-normal hurricane season in the central Pacific basin", including the waters around Hawaii in 2026."
Travel advice and safety measures
Travellers to the USA during hurricane season should check the websites of local, State and Federal agencies (such as NOAA and the US National Hurricane Center) for the latest forecasts and conditions. They should also be aware of the possibility of disruption to flights and other transport services.
Anyone planning to visit should monitor storms on the US National Hurricane Center website and always follow any instructions issued by local authorities, which could include evacuation orders. It's also important to check the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website, where travellers can find further details on preparing for extreme weather and evacuating.
Understanding hurricane risks
FEMA's website says: "Hurricanes are dangerous and can cause major damage from storm surges, wind damage, rip currents and flooding. They can happen along any U.S. coast or in any territory in the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. Historically, storm surge is the leading cause of hurricane-related deaths in the United States. In parts of the western North Pacific, hurricanes are called typhoons."
The guide explains that hurricanes are not just a problem for coastal areas, as rain, wind and tornadoes can occur inland after a hurricane makes landfall. Everyone should be aware of their hurricane plans and know their evacuation zone. The experts say: "You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane if you live in an evacuation zone. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay."
