The Tribune

The plan to develop a predictive system to improve the ability to prepare for and respond to severe weather systems was highlighted at a recent climate talk this week.

Trevor Basden, senior vice president and director of Meteorology at the Bahamas Aviation, Climate and Severe Weather Network (BACSWN) provided an overview of the evolving nature of hurricanes and tropical storms affecting The Bahamas at the Bahamian American Association of the Washington, DC and Mid-Atlantic Region’s (BAAWMAR) Community Conversation on Facebook.

For his part, Mr Basden emphasised the increasing intensity and frequency of these storms and the urgent need for advanced predictive models to mitigate their impact. He underscored that The Bahamas is particularly vulnerable, ranking high in the Atlantic basin for major hurricanes, especially impacting areas like Abaco and Grand Bahama. This vulnerability necessitates innovative approaches to forecasting and preparedness.

One of the key initiatives Mr Basden discussed was BACSWN’s plan to develop a predictive system to improve the ability to prepare for and respond to severe weather systems. This system aims to enhance the accuracy of storm tracking and intensity predictions, crucial for timely and effective disaster management.

Mr Basden also addressed the critical role of visualisations in communicating weather forecasts to the public. He advocated for using more engaging and understandable 3D visualisations to help residents of vulnerable areas better comprehend potential impacts, which is crucial for effective evacuation and preparation strategies.

He pointed to BACSWN’s partnerships with the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), aimed at bringing the latest advancements in meteorological science to The Bahamas. These partnerships will also provide scholarships and training opportunities to Bahamians interested in the field, he said.

Mr Basden said: “We have already reached out to the National Center for Atmospheric Research, and also NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. So we really have gotten together with these organizations, and they’re are showing great support with our idea of the visualisations to the extent that we would wish to offer at least 50 scholarships to deserving of Bahamians, who would be interested in meteorology and climate... we are willing to assist and provoke and encourage Bahamians.”

Mr Basden emphasised the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of increasing climate challenges. He underscored the need for continuous innovation, collaboration, and education to build a more resilient nation capable of withstanding the growing threats of climate change.

The live talk on “The Climate Crisis: Managing Risk, Recovery, and Resilience”, was moderated by Dr Khandra Sears, chair of BAAWMAR and also featured other experts, including Ms Barrise Griffin, Mr Charles Hamilton, Ms Shacara Lightbourne, Mr Giovanni Moss, and Mr Aarone Sargent, who provided a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted approach needed to address the climate crisis.

The discussions underscored the collective effort required from local communities, government agencies, and international partners to effectively manage and mitigate the risks associated with climate change.