Residents relying on prayer over hurricane stockpiling

Despite predictions that warn of an above-average season and thus a greater chance of storm damage, in Cayman, people seem to be increasingly reluctant to spend on preparation.

The annual ritual of stockpiling essentials in preparation for potential storms is facing challenges this year, as many individuals and families grapple with financial constraints exacerbated by the rising cost of basic necessities.

According to a recent Compass survey conducted among grocery shoppers, a significant portion of the population is reevaluating their approach to purchasing hurricane supplies.

According to the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, hurricanes are certainly becoming more intense and damaging, though less certain is an increase in their frequency. Despite the greater hurricane risk, not one respondent to the Compass survey indicated that they would be increasing their hurricane stockpile. One response noted that should a terrible hurricane come, “the supplies will just wash away anyway like they did in [Hurricane] Ivan”.

Overall, 86% of respondents expressed concern about the financial strain of buying hurricane supplies. One person, who noted he was not going to purchase any items at all, said his plan was simply to pray that no hurricane occurred.

Another noted that with the current prices, their pay was not stretching as far, therefore it had become even harder to set aside extra money for current emergencies much less for the potential damage from a hurricane.

The survey results also showcased a variety of strategies individuals are adopting to save money in general. Meal prepping, using energy-efficient appliances, and even altering diets are among the approaches people are taking to cope with the rising cost of living.

In addition, the survey highlighted diverse viewpoints within the community. While some individuals have managed to maintain their purchasing habits and prioritise storm preparedness, others have completely refrained from buying additional supplies.

One respondent, who chose to remain anonymous, mentioned that they have decided to forgo buying hurricane supplies altogether, relying on past years’ stock and opting to take their chances.

Another pair was unconcerned about the costs and, although they noted that they may have over-purchased in 2022, their first year in Cayman, and have already purchased some items this year, they still planned to get a few more things that they think they might have missed.

Another participant voiced his concern about the perceived increase in the cost, noting that he was “sure I’ll spend more money” though he wasn’t certain that he would be able to purchase any additional supplies with increased spending.

Teresita DaSilva, preparedness and planning manager of Hazard Management Cayman Islands, is encouraging locals to combat feeling overwhelmed by the cost of goods by purchasing “one or two items at a time every time you go to the supermarket”.

She cautioned that “in the aftermath of a storm, there may be no stores; you do not know what devastation may occur, so we encourage people to get one or two items now”.