WILLEMSTAD - The U.S. Air Force Reserve’s 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, better known as the Hurricane Hunters, arrived yesterday at CSL Curaçao, marking the start of an important regional mission to enhance storm forecasting and disaster preparedness across the Caribbean.

The specialized aircraft and crew collect critical scientific data from within tropical storms and hurricanes, information that is vital for improving forecast accuracy and emergency response efforts throughout the region.

By hosting the Hurricane Hunters, CSL Curaçao enables these operations to take place just a few hundred miles from active storm systems, significantly reducing flight times and allowing for more frequent storm penetrations. This proximity boosts the precision and timeliness of forecasts that help protect lives and property across the Caribbean and surrounding areas.

In a statement, CSL Curaçao expressed pride in supporting the mission:

“We’re honored to play a part in this vital effort and deeply grateful to the people of Curaçao for their continued cooperation and support.”

The deployment underscores Curaçao’s strategic importance in regional disaster preparedness and its ongoing collaboration with international partners to strengthen resilience against severe weather events.