PAHO urges stronger preparedness despite below-normal hurricane season forecasts

As the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is calling on countries to review their contingency plans and bolster preparedness measures. The organization emphasizes the need to protect health systems from the impacts of hurricanes, floods, and other extreme weather events.

Although forecasts suggest the 2026 season may be less active than in recent years, PAHO cautions that even one intense storm can cause significant disruptions to health services and pose serious risks to public health. "Extreme hydrometeorological events continue to be a constant threat to the Americas," stated Leonardo Hernández, head of PAHO's Emergency Operations Unit. "Preparing health systems before an emergency is key to saving lives, maintaining access to essential services, and reducing the impact on the most vulnerable populations."

Beyond infrastructure damage and service interruptions, hurricanes and floods can increase the risk of waterborne and vector-borne diseases, respiratory conditions, injuries, and mental health problems. These emergencies can also place additional strain on already challenged health systems.

PAHO urges countries to ensure health facilities have updated contingency plans, trained personnel, and coordination mechanisms for continuity and rapid recovery of essential services post-emergency. Strengthening surveillance systems and community monitoring is also recommended for early detection of associated health risks. The organization highlights the urgency given the current epidemiological context in the Americas, marked by active outbreaks of measles and yellow fever, and the need to maintain response capabilities for emerging health threats.