Cayman escapes unscathed from busy storm season

(CNS): Virginie and Walter may be feeling a little left out this morning as the only two names not used in one of the busiest Atlantic Hurricane seasons on record draws to a close. Although busy the season was not as dangerous as other years over 250 people were killed by storms and hurricanes in the Caribbean and Central American region. The year 2010 was accurately predicted by a number of storm forecasters as a busy season one which in the end churned up 19 storms 12 of which became hurricanes. With the exception of a brief storm watch and flooding from Nicole the Cayman Islands was almost undisturbed.

Five of this year’s hurricanes were rated as major system at category 3 and above packing winds of over 110mph. Colorado State University scientists Phil Klotzbach and William Gray had forecast 18 named storms, 10 hurricanes and five major hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher. Meanwhile the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted 14 to 20 named storms; eight to 12 hurricanes; and four to six major hurricanes.

In September the shortest lived storm of the season was the only one to give the Cayman Islands any trouble. Tropical Storm Nicole closed schools and caused flooding in low-lying areas after significant rain (above). The same storm however wreaked havoc across Jamaica, where 12 people were killed in flash floods.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season 2010 formally ends today Tuesday 30 November.