WILLEMSTAD – The Meteorological Service of Curaçao, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature, is preparing to launch a public awareness campaign focused on how to deal with heat during the upcoming hurricane season. The initiative was announced by Albert Martis, director of the Meteorological Service.
The campaign will initially focus on informing the general public but will also include resources tailored for the education sector. Among the ideas under consideration are strategies for schools to adapt to rising temperatures, such as planting trees in schoolyards to create more shade and installing white roofs to reflect sunlight and reduce indoor heat.
Martis emphasized that climate change is increasing the demand for meteorological information. The Meteorological Service is in talks with various organizations to provide more targeted support. For example, discussions are underway with utility company Aqualectra about how strong winds—especially in September when hurricanes pass north of Curaçao—can disrupt wind direction and temporarily halt electricity production from wind turbines.
The Service is also working closely with the Curaçao Ports Authority (CPA). In cases of severe weather, it provides crucial data to help determine whether the iconic Queen Emma pontoon bridge should be temporarily removed. Additionally, both cruise and cargo ships receive detailed weather updates through the Harbor Master.
Collaboration is also expanding beyond Curaçao. Talks are ongoing with Aruba to offer meteorological support similar to what is provided locally. Since the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles, Curaçao has remained responsible for meteorological services on both Curaçao and Aruba, and it continues to work closely with Sint Maarten. Martis also noted that even Venezuela relies on Curaçao’s radar data in emergency situations.
The Meteorological Service is further responsible for all weather-related information for air traffic within Curaçao’s airspace. With increasing flight connections between the Netherlands and Colombia, the service plays an increasingly important role, particularly in coordination with air traffic control at Hato International Airport.
Martis concluded with a strong message about regional cooperation: “Weather knows no borders,” he said. “That’s why collaboration in the region is essential to face climate change and extreme weather conditions together.”
