thunderstorm on cruise

Cruise FAQs

What happens if there is a storm while on a cruise: safety tips.

Uncover essential safety tips for navigating storms on a cruise, ensuring you're prepared for any unexpected challenges at sea.

Key Takeaways

• Seek shelter in cabins for safety and follow crew instructions promptly.
• Familiarize with safety equipment and emergency procedures onboard.
• Crew undergo rigorous training to manage emergencies efficiently.
• Prioritize passenger safety and adapt swiftly to changing weather conditions.

Common Storm Scenarios on Cruises

Safety Measures During Storms

Sheltering in Cabins

Avoiding open decks.

• Utilize Indoor Areas : Seek shelter in designated indoor areas or cabins to protect yourself from the harsh weather elements.
• Follow Crew Instructions : Crew members may restrict access to open decks during severe weather for passenger safety. Adhering to their guidance is vital.
• Stay Informed : Keep yourself updated on the weather conditions and safety protocols while onboard to make informed decisions for your safety.

Following Crew Instructions

Importance of following crew instructions.

• Expert Guidance : Crew members undergo extensive training to handle storm situations effectively. Their experience and knowledge equip them to navigate through challenging conditions and ensure the safety of passengers.
• Maintaining Order : Crew announcements and safety protocols play a vital role in maintaining order and facilitating a coordinated response during storms. By following these instructions, passengers contribute to the overall safety and well-being of everyone on board.
• Effective Navigation : Trusting and complying with crew directives enable passengers to navigate storm challenges efficiently. By working together with the crew, passengers can enhance their safety and security while onboard.

Precautionary Steps for Passengers

Safety Equipment Availability

• Clear Instructions: Passengers receive clear instructions on how to locate and properly use safety equipment, ensuring they're prepared in the event of an emergency.
• Regulatory Compliance: Cruise ships adhere to international maritime regulations regarding the availability and maintenance of safety equipment, guaranteeing that passengers are protected during storms.
• Crew Preparedness: Crew members undergo rigorous training to efficiently handle safety equipment and ensure the well-being of all passengers.

Emergency Evacuation Procedures

Evacuation protocols on cruise ships.

• Clear Evacuation Routes: Cruise ships have clearly marked evacuation routes throughout the vessel to guide individuals to designated assembly points. This strategic placement helps passengers and crew navigate safely even in challenging conditions.
• Mandatory Safety Drills: Passengers are required to participate in safety drills at the beginning of the cruise. These drills familiarize individuals with evacuation procedures, ensuring they can respond effectively in case of an emergency.
• Crew Training: Crew members undergo rigorous training to efficiently manage emergency situations and assist passengers during evacuations. This training equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle various scenarios that may arise while at sea.

Communication Channels During Storms

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a cruise ship tip over in a storm?, is it safe to be on a cruise ship during a storm?, how do ships not tip over in storms?, how do cruise ships survive storms?.

Smooth sailing awaits on the other side.

Claire, a creative soul with an unquenchable thirst for storytelling, is an integral part of the Voyager Info team. As a dedicated writer, she weaves captivating narratives that transport readers to enchanting cruise destinations and beyond.

Claire’s love affair with writing began at an early age when she discovered the magic of words and their ability to craft worlds and emotions. Her innate curiosity led her to explore various literary genres, but it was travel writing that truly captured her heart. Drawing inspiration from her own globetrotting adventures and encounters with diverse cultures, Claire embarked on a journey to become a travel writer par excellence.

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Claire, a creative soul with an unquenchable thirst for storytelling, is an integral part of the Voyager Info team. As a dedicated writer, she weaves captivating narratives that transport readers to enchanting cruise destinations and beyond. Claire’s love affair with writing began at an early age when she discovered the magic of words and their ability to craft worlds and emotions. Her innate curiosity led her to explore various literary genres, but it was travel writing that truly captured her heart. Drawing inspiration from her own globetrotting adventures and encounters with diverse cultures, Claire embarked on a journey to become a travel writer par excellence.

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• Exterior enhancements like body kits, custom paint jobs, and aftermarket wheels can also be considered when installing cruise control.
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Search Online Directories and Websites

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• Access the MSC Cruises website.
• Log in to your account.
• Navigate to the ‘Manage My Booking’ section.
• Locate your booking.
• Select the ‘Cancel’ option.
• Review the cancellation policy and any fees that may apply.
• Confirm your cancellation request.
• Once you’ve completed the process, you will receive a confirmation email or notification.
• Contacting customer service is important for valuable assistance and guidance in the cancellation process.
• Customer service is available through various channels such as phone, email, live chat, and social media.
• The customer service team can provide clarification on refund policies and discuss alternative options.
• By reaching out to customer service, passengers can receive support for navigating the online cancellation process and ensure a smooth cancellation experience.

Access the MSC Cruises website

Log in to your account.

• Visit the MSC Cruises website and click on the ‘Log In’ button.
• Enter your email address and password associated with your account.
• If you’ve forgotten your password, click on the ‘Forgot Password’ link.
• Follow the instructions sent to your email to reset your password.

Navigate to the "Manage My Booking" section

Locate your booking and select the "cancel" option.

• Go to the MSC Cruises website and click on the ‘Manage My Booking’ section.
• Look for your booking among the list of your current reservations.
• If necessary, enter your booking reference number or provide other identifying information.
• Once you have found your booking, click on the ‘Cancel’ option.
• This will start the cancellation process and you will be asked to confirm your decision.

Review the cancellation policy and any applicable fees

Provide the necessary information, such as your booking number and reason for cancellation, confirm your cancellation request, receive a confirmation email or notification of your cancellation, check your refund status, if applicable.

• Login to your MSC Cruises account.
• Go to the ‘My Bookings’ section.
• Find the cancelled booking and click on it.
• Look for the refund status option and click on it.
• You will see the current status of your refund, whether it is being processed or if there are any cancellation fees deducted.

Contact customer service for any further assistance or inquiries

What is the refund policy for cancelling an msc cruise online, how long does it take to receive a refund after cancelling an msc cruise online, are there any fees associated with cancelling an msc cruise online, can i cancel only a portion of my booking online, or do i have to cancel the entire reservation, what happens if i need to cancel my msc cruise online, but i don’t have my booking number.

So, while canceling your MSC cruise online may not be the most thrilling experience, with a little patience and persistence, you’ll get through it. Happy canceling!

What Not To Do On A Disney Cruise

• Avoid overpacking and instead pack light and efficiently, considering activities and choosing versatile clothing items.
• Research and plan ahead to make the most of your cruise experience, including checking the cruise schedule for special events, exploring onboard activities, and researching port excursions.
• Make sure to check the daily schedule for character appearances and plan your day accordingly to meet your favorite characters.
• Take advantage of photo opportunities with characters, both through professional sessions and impromptu meet and greets, to capture magical moments and create lasting memories.

Pack Light and Efficiently

Research and plan ahead, don’t miss out on character meet and greets, check the daily schedule for character appearances, line up early for popular characters, take advantage of photo opportunities, avoid overindulging in food and drinks, don’t forget to take advantage of onboard entertainment, attend broadway-style shows and performances, participate in trivia nights and game shows, enjoy live music and dance parties, follow safety guidelines and rules, avoid missing important announcements and updates, pay attention to the daily navigator or cruise app, listen for public address system announcements, check the ship’s informational screens, be mindful of your budget, don’t miss the castaway cay experience, plan your day on disney’s private island, enjoy water sports and beach activities, explore the nature trails and bike rentals, avoid overworking yourself with a packed schedule, can i bring my own food and drinks on board, are there any age restrictions for the onboard entertainment, what are the safety guidelines and rules for children on the cruise, are there any additional costs for the castaway cay experience, what happens if i miss an important announcement or update.

And most importantly, don’t miss out on the incredible experience of Castaway Cay. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.

Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team.

From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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How Cruise Lines Handle Storms, Fog, Bomb Cyclones, and More

Water sloshing across the deck, waves lapping at cabin windows, furniture flying, dishes smashing. We’ve all seen terrifying videos of what happens when a cruise ship gets caught in a major storm. But the toughest reality might be this: generally, it looks worse than it is. Though we can’t control Mother Nature, when bad weather strikes, cruise lines are prepared. Want to know their strategies—how they handle it, and what that means for when you cruise? We talked to the cruise lines directly to find out.

Ships are made for moving

When in the throes of a storm—whether in a plane, a car, or a ship—it’s easy to get nervous about the turbulence and forget that today’s methods of transportation are fairly capable of enduring bouts of bad weather. “Ships can go through rough seas,” says captain Ben Lyons, who helmed small ships for Lindblad Expeditions for years, and is now CEO of Expedition Voyage Consultants, which advises cruise lines on best practices for planning and executing expedition sailings. “It’s more uncomfortable for the guests, but ships can take it.”

Cruise ships are made of heavy steel that’s even heavier with a full load of passengers and crew onboard. With all that weight, they can roll with the waves. In the roughest seas a ship may list, or tilt to one side, but even that’s unlikely—shipbuilders test things such as buoyancy and center of gravity during construction, which includes putting scale models of ships through all sorts of storm simulations. In short, those ships are built to handle storms, even in hurricane season.

Monitoring the weather

Take heed, budding armchair meteorologists: Modern cruise ships have the latest and greatest weather forecasting equipment—far beyond what you can look up on your phone. The bridge (the command center where the captain works) has an entire arsenal of weather maps, satellite images of storms, even computer models from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and third-party meteorologists. The crew and officers monitor it all constantly.

Safety is a priority for all cruise lines, and even with these on-ship set-ups, many companies add additional layers of precaution. In January 2017, Royal Caribbean hired James Van Fleet as the first-in-the-industry dedicated cruise line meteorologist; he previously worked as a TV meteorologist for more than 20 years. During the hurricane and typhoon season, which is June to November, he’s in the Miami headquarters monitoring a 25-foot wall of weather screens and sharing information with the company’s 26 ships and the executive team.

In most cases, he says, he can see storms seven to 10 days out, and advise ships on avoidance strategies. “I know what the models are suggesting, and they [the crews] are getting the word sooner so they don’t have to scramble,” Van Fleet says. “If there is a typhoon in the western Pacific and we may need to reroute a couple of ships, I can be talking to them two or three times a day.”

Carnival Cruise Line , meanwhile, monitors weather from a multi-million-dollar command center that it opened last year. “One of the many ways that we keep our guests, crew, and vessels safe is through our new state-of-the-art Fleet Operations Center (FOC) at our Miami headquarters,” says Lars Ljoen, executive vice president of marine operations for Carnival Cruise Line.

The first facility of its kind in Southern Florida, the 35,000-square-foot operations center is staffed 24/7 and has a 74-foot-long video wall with 57 LED screens that shows the status of all the line’s 27 ships, including weather, itinerary, and safety updates—some captured by a software called Argos, a management tool developed in-house.

“During hurricane season, our Fleet Operations Center is an invaluable tool as it provides a comprehensive, at-a-glance look at the exact locations of our ships, allowing us to closely monitor their position in relation to the path of the storm and ultimately deploy vessels elsewhere,” says its director, John Rowley.

When to reroute a ship

Cruise ships tend to stick to destinations where they can avoid bad weather, such as the Caribbean in winter and Alaska’s inside passage and the Mediterranean in summer, but there are exceptions: cruising in the Caribbean in summer when the kids are out of school has become popular for families, for example, even though it’s during hurricane season. At any time of year, too, the weather can be unpredictable.

When seas get rough, modern cruise ships have onboard technology that helps stabilize them. But if it looks like a more serious storm is in their path, cruise ships generally try to outrun or avoid them.

“We’ve steered our ships around typhoons, hurricanes, fog, massive storms with rapid intensification—which gets the term ‘bomb cyclones,’” Van Fleet says. “But we’ve moved. If you are on our ship and there’s a hurricane out there, I can move you. I can get you to better weather,” he adds, noting that land-based hotels and resorts don’t have that option.

There are situations where a ship may have no choice other than encountering some weather, such as during a North Atlantic crossing in the fall. But even in these cases ships try to find the calmest patch of sea. If adverse weather is unavoidable, the cruise line may change your itinerary , possibly switching your Bermuda cruise with one along the coast of New England and Canada, or shortening or lengthening your cruise by a day or two.

Those decisions are made collaboratively with captains, with guest comfort in mind, Van Fleet says. For instance, to avoid heavy rain, he might suggest a ship stay at sea and arrive at a port a few hours later than planned. By contrast, a port may be skipped altogether if seas are too rough—especially if the port doesn’t have a deep-water dock, meaning passengers have to board tenders, or small boats to get to shore, which is a difficult and dangerous operation in windy conditions.

In those cases, the ship may dock at an alternative port, possibly one you didn’t expect to visit; change the order of the ports that are on the itinerary; or seek a sunny spot at sea. Cruise lines are adept at handling these situations and outline this possibility for guests, along with their policies for how they handle them. If this happens to you, talk to the cruise line directly about refunds or other means of recompense—especially if your ship’s return to its homeport needs to be delayed and affects your flights home.

What to expect if your ship hits bad weather

If you’re already on a ship and meet rough conditions, listen to the instructions of the captain and crew. It’s common for the crew to put down non-slip mats and add signage reminding you to exercise caution when walking. Van Fleet says part of his job is communicating with the crew when such procedures may be necessary.

Every day, listen to the captain’s report from the bridge, which includes a description of sea conditions, to decide what preparations you may need to make for the day. If you get seasick , be prepared with over-the-counter motion sickness medications, homeopathic remedies, or a prescription patch from your doctor.

Note that attractions such as the pool and waterslides may shut down, or the outdoor decks may be closed altogether. In very rare situations, the Captain may require all passengers stay in their cabins. In general, you’ll likely feel some rolling—but that goes for the entirety of your trip, too. “You’re on a ship on the ocean; you’re signing on for some movement,” Van Fleet says. “But my job is to make sure it’s an acceptable, safe amount that you can enjoy your vacation with.”

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Dramatic video shows royal caribbean cruise ship passengers panic during freak storm.

Dramatic video captured the moment panicked passengers ran for their lives aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship hit by a freak storm — which sent deck furniture flying as the vessel prepared to leave a Florida port.

The Independence of the Seas was about to embark on a voyage from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas about 4 p.m. June 16 when heavy rain and violent winds slammed the 15-deck, 1,112-foot-long vessel.

“Just a fun evening leaving Port Canaveral this past Friday. No announcement from the captain before or after, also no mention of what happened. Just pretend like it didn’t happen I guess,” TikTok user Lucassparrow1110 posted .

Sparrow also posted harrowing footage on Twitter of chairs and umbrellas flying on the ship as screaming passengers seek cover from the storm — and several people are seen sliding across a windswept walkway.

“Instead of telling people to come up to the top deck when we have a severe thunderstorm warning, maybe you should be more worried about your guests and employees and tell them to get inside,” he wrote.

At one point, a lounge chair narrowly misses a woman carrying a child.

Jenn Stancil, who captured footage of the storm moving in, told Fox 35 Orlando : “It just turned crazy. It looked like a scene from the movie ‘Twister’ is exactly what I thought, because you see these chairs flying up in the air.”

Jerry Pike, a local photographer who was sitting in his vehicle in Jetty Park during the outburst, also posted video of the storm.

“This is my view of Independence of the Seas as she started to get battered by the heavy winds whilst mid-spin attempting to turn around to leave the port,” Pike said in a tweet .

“You can see the rain line pushing towards us, and the Indy was completely gone from view due to the rain shortly after this,” he added.

A meteorologist for Fox 35 reported that winds reached from 55 to 60 mph at the height of the storm.

“The Independence was just getting battered by winds as it was trying to push off the dock,” Pike told Insider . “Then [it] was covered by the gray cloud of rain and we couldn’t see more than 20 yards out the window.”  

Kyleigh Cole, an agent with Boardwalk Travel Agency, expressed concerns about how Royal Caribbean handled the incident.

“There’s always something you can do, other than just letting the guests and the travelers getting poured on, rained down on and being in the middle of a storm,” Cole told Fox 35 .

“This could have ruined somebody’s cruise experience where they’ll never take another cruise again,” the travel agent added.

In a statement sent to the news outlet, the company said the “Independence of the seas encountered a sudden gust of high winds. This lasted for a brief period and there were no serious injuries to our guests or crew…”

The ship reportedly arrived safely at Coco Cay, an island used by Royal Caribbean about 55 miles north of Nassau.

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Bonkers video footage shows chaos on cruise ship during intense storm, share this article.

An intense storm surprised passengers as they boarded a cruise ship in Florida and sent them scrambling for shelter as hurricane-like winds sent deck chairs and loungers, among other things, flying into the air in a chaotic scene some likened to the movie “Twister.”

The Independence of the Seas from Royal Caribbean was at the dock in Port Canaveral when the storm suddenly erupted with heavy rain and wind, sending many of the passengers into a panic as they sought safety. Some were hit by the flying debris.

Jenn Stancil captured video of the storm moving in and the passengers scrambling for safety as rain drenched the deck.

“It just turned crazy,” Stancil told FOX 35 Orlando . “It looked like a scene from the movie “Twister” is exactly what I thought, because you see these chairs flying up in the air.”

Lucas Sparrow, another eyewitness, told FOX 35 Orlando, “People were getting blown, losing their hats [and] towels.”

One lounger crashed down on an empty baby stroller as the woman pulled it. Fortunately the woman was carrying the baby and was not hit, as shown in footage posted on the Instagram account called Sunshine State of Mind 305 . (To view on some servers, you might have to click the link.)

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sunshine State of Mind 305 (@305ssom)

Stancil’s video lasted only a bit over four minutes, showing how quickly a storm can move in. And how quickly, in this case, it can move on.

Also on FTW Outdoors: Video from fishing boat in high seas causes viewers to become ‘seasick’

Royal Caribbean responded to FOX 35’s request for comments, saying, “On Friday, June 16, while departing from Port Canaveral,  Independence of the Seas  encountered a sudden gust of high winds. This lasted for a brief period and there were no serious injuries to our guests or crew.  Independence of the Seas  continued its regularly scheduled 3-night itinerary, arriving to Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas, on Saturday morning, as scheduled.”

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Passengers hit by a storm on a Royal Caribbean cruise line cling to railings as intense gusts rock the ship and send debris flying, videos show

• A Royal Caribbean cruise was battered by gusts of rain and wind before its departure Friday.
• Passengers shared videos of patrons sliding along the deck during the storm.
• The cruise line says no serious injuries or damage occurred as a result of the storm.

Passengers on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship ran for cover as umbrellas, chairs, and other furniture flew around them during a sudden, spectacular storm that struck Florida's Port Canaveral on Friday.

As the Independence of the Seas prepared to depart, strong winds and rain battered the 15-deck ship. In multiple videos posted to YouTube and Twitter , passengers are shown slipping and sliding across the decks while attempting to get safely inside.

The ship departed for the Bahamas despite the storm and arrived at CocoCay on time, according to a Royal Caribbean statement to Insider. The company called the storm "brief" and said there were no serious injuries to crewmembers or passengers.  

Passengers took to the internet to describe their personal experiences. 

"Instead of telling people to come up to the top deck when we have a severe thunderstorm warning, maybe you should be more worried about your guests and employees and tell them to get inside," tweeted one passenger who filmed the storm .

Jerry Pike, a photographer and Florida local, told Insider he watched the storm hit the Independence of the Seas while sitting in a car in Jetty Park facing the port. Though the storm lasted only minutes, he said it was "exceptionally strong." 

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—Jerry Pike (@JerryPikePhoto) June 16, 2023

Pike estimated winds reached between 40 and 50 miles per hour at the height of the storm, which he added was "terrifying" to watch. A meteorologist for Fox 35 reported winds reached from 55 to 60 miles an hour at their peak strength. 

"The Independence was just getting battered by winds as it was trying to push off the dock," Pike said. "Then [it] was covered by the gray cloud of rain and we couldn't see more than 20 yards out the window."  

The storm is just one of many expected to hit the Florida coast as hurricane season begins in the Atlantic Ocean, which runs from the beginning of June to November 30.

Watch: The rise and fall of the cruise industry

• Main content

Videos capture terrifying moments of Royal Caribbean cruise caught in bad weather

A spokesperson for royal caribbean said the turbulence did not last long and there were no serious injuries., by monica galarza and kaitlyn schwanemann • published june 23, 2023 • updated on june 26, 2023 at 7:27 am.

A sudden storm hit a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, sending passengers running for cover as furniture flew around the deck.

Passengers had just boarded the Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas docked in Port Canaveral in Cape Canaveral, Florida, and were about to depart for the Bahamas when gusts of hurricane-like winds hit the ship.

📺 24/7 South Florida news stream: Watch NBC6 free wherever you are

Videos shared on social media show lounge chairs and tables flying across the deck.

One video captured the terrifying moment when a lounge chair narrowly misses a woman carrying a small child and hitting her stroller. Fortunately, the stroller was empty.

The Hurricane season is on. Our meteorologists are ready. Sign up for the NBC 6 Weather newsletter to get the latest forecast in your inbox.

Another video shows cruise guests running from the turbulent weather.

A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean said the storm did not last long and there were no serious injuries reported.

The cruise was able depart for the Bahamas and arrived at CocoCay on time, the spokesperson said.

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@cornettahh Another angle from the 6/16/23 squall that hit #independenceofthesea while docked in #PortCanaveral around 4pm. It hit so fast and was gone in a matter of minutes! No ship announcements were made before or after so people on the lower pool deck were hit completely without warning. 😳 #hurricaneseason #floridaweather #cruiseship #royalcaribbean #chaos #ocean #sea #squall ♬ original sound - Cora Cornett

Cruising during hurricane season: What to know — and should you go?

Veteran cruisers know that fall is a great time to snag a deal on a cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas. But the deals come with a big caveat: Fall is hurricane season in these regions, and there's a chance a hurricane or tropical storm could disrupt your sailing.

During most years, at least a few fall cruises are affected by storms. In some years, dozens of voyages are affected.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Still, even during peak hurricane season weeks (more on that below), most sailings in the Caribbean and the Bahamas are completed without a hitch. Here's what you need to know before committing to cruising during hurricane season in these regions.

When is hurricane season for cruises?

In theory, a hurricane or tropical storm can develop in the Atlantic at any time. Still, the vast majority of such storms — about 97%, according to the National Hurricane Center — occur between June 1 and Nov. 30 of any given year. This is the period known as hurricane season in the Atlantic, and it typically brings about 14 named tropical storms, half of which become hurricanes.

Within this time frame, the peak period for tropical storms in the Atlantic, by far, is the weeks between mid-August and mid-October. This is the key "iffy zone," as I like to call it, for cruises to the Caribbean and the Bahamas , as well as sailings out of eastern U.S. ports to Bermuda and New England.

Still, even during peak weeks for hurricane formation, the odds of your cruise being affected by a hurricane are relatively small. A glance at any cruise booking site will show hundreds of sailings departing for the Caribbean and the Bahamas each year during cruise hurricane season. In most years, though, only a small portion of these are affected by tropical storms.

Even during the busiest of hurricane seasons, there will be many weeks without a single tropical storm in the Caribbean or Bahamas. When a large storm does swirl through the Caribbean or Bahamas, it'll likely only affect a small portion of the region and, thus, only a small number of cruise ships.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Caribbean is enormous in comparison to the size of a typical hurricane. The distance between Belize, on the western end of the Caribbean Sea, and the easternmost Leeward Islands is nearly 2,000 miles. The hurricane-force winds of a typical small hurricane, by contrast, extend just 25 miles out from its center. The hurricane-force winds from a large hurricane might extend as far as 150 miles from its center.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Even a giant hurricane that is bearing down on St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands (a common port on Eastern Caribbean sailings), for instance, is likely to have little or no impact on a Western Caribbean or Southern Caribbean sailing happening at that time.

Trying to predict where tropical storms will hit in any given year is a fool's game. But if you're playing the odds, one area that is known for seeing fewer storms on average is the southern part of the Caribbean. The southerly islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao (common stops on Southern Caribbean itineraries), in particular, are far south of the typical hurricane track and experience few fall storms.

How many hurricanes are expected in 2024?

For the 2024 hurricane season specifically, the U.S. government's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts an above-normal year with 17 to 25 named storms, of which eight to 13 would become hurricanes.

Of those, four to seven could become major hurricanes, according to the forecast.

The agency cited several factors that tend to favor tropical storm formation, including near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, the development of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, and reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear.

NOAA's prediction was released on May 23.

In April, another major hurricane forecasting group at Colorado State University also predicted a year with many hurricanes. Its forecast calls for an "extremely active" year with 23 named storms for the season as a whole, of which 11 would become hurricanes.

Of those, five could become major hurricanes with sustained winds of 111 mph or more, according to the Colorado State University forecast.

The Colorado State team also cited warm ocean temperatures as a factor for the elevated forecast.

Your hurricane season cruise itinerary could change

When a tropical storm does appear in one part of the Caribbean or Bahamas, the standard response from cruise lines is to reroute ships in that area to other parts of the Caribbean or Bahamas that are well clear of the storm. This can mean a last-minute change to your cruise itinerary.

Depending on the forecasted track of the storm, the change could be relatively minor — a port stop being pushed back by a day, for instance, or one port being swapped for another port. It could also be far more significant.

To avoid storms, cruise lines will sometimes completely rework an itinerary. A ship on an Eastern Caribbean sailing to such stops as St. Thomas and St. Kitts might reroute to such Western Caribbean ports as Cozumel, Mexico, and Falmouth, Jamaica.

In some cases, a storm will cause a port to be dropped from an itinerary with no new port added as a replacement. Occasionally, you'll see cruises shortened or extended by a day or two or even three.

The latter situation can occur when a storm is forecast to pass between a ship and its home port around the time the vessel is scheduled to be heading home. The ship either will return to the home port early to arrive before the storm or stay out at sea for extra days to wait for the storm to pass.

Related: 26 cruise secrets from a cruising expert that will blow your mind

In rare cases when a home port closes due to a storm, ships have been known to sail to an alternative port to drop off passengers. In such situations, the vessels sometimes will depart on their next cruise from the alternative port. Cruises are canceled occasionally when a home port experiences extended disruptions related to storms, but this is relatively rare.

You aren't entitled to compensation for itinerary changes

Cruise lines aren't obligated to offer you compensation if they change an itinerary due to weather. The fine print in cruise contracts allows them to make such changes when they see fit. However, that doesn't mean they never offer compensation.

In the case of a port swap — when one port is substituted for another — there typically isn't any compensation offered. When a port is missed without a substitute, though, there's a chance you might be offered an onboard credit as compensation. Just don't count on it. Lines will also refund the cost of any prepaid shore excursions scheduled for the missed port and the portion of port taxes and fees you paid in advance that are associated with that port.

In the case of a shortened voyage, lines will typically offer a prorated refund for the lost days. On the flip side, when cruises are extended, lines generally won't charge passengers anything more for the extra days — at least for room, board and entertainment. Passengers typically will still have to pay for onboard extras such as drinks and spa treatments.

When cruises are shortened or extended due to weather, cruise lines will often aid passengers who need to change post-cruise travel plans. They might offer free phone calls from the ship or free internet access to make it easier for passengers to contact airlines and hotels to make changes.

You won't get a refund if you cancel a cruise to avoid a storm

As a rule, cruise lines don't offer refunds to passengers who cancel a voyage on short notice, even if there's a big storm brewing in the area where the cruise is scheduled to take place.

If you see there's a hurricane churning toward the Caribbean a few days before your departure, you can't call your cruise line, cancel the trip and expect to get your money back.

From the cruise line's point of view, the cruise will go on — it just might be adjusted a bit. (Or not, depending on how the storm tracks over the coming days.) As far as the line sees it, you're still about to get what you paid for: a wonderful cruise vacation.

That said, there are exceptions to the rule. When a line knows in advance that a storm will cause a significant alteration to a voyage (for instance, lost days due to a delayed departure), it sometimes will allow passengers to cancel for a refund or credit toward a future cruise.

This happened in 2017 when some lines delayed departures out of Florida as Hurricane Irma approached. The lines that delayed departures allowed passengers to cancel for a refund in the form of a cruise credit. Alternatively, passengers could proceed with the shortened trips and receive a prorated refund for the missed days.

Related: The best time to cruise to the Bahamas

When a line cancels a departure outright, it's sometimes the case that it will offer passengers both a refund for the trip and a future cruise credit they can apply to their next sailing. This sort of response was on display in 2017 as Irma's approach prompted some lines to cancel itineraries altogether.

One problem that cruisers encounter in these (relatively rare) situations where a cruise line cancels a sailing due to a storm is that the cancellation usually comes at the last minute. That could leave you in limbo in the days leading up to your cruise, wondering whether your cruise is on or not. If a hurricane is headed for your departure port, you might have to decide whether to travel to the departure port (and possibly into a dangerous storm) or stay home and risk losing all the money you paid for the sailing.

Each line approaches compensation issues differently, and some are historically more generous than others in offering compensation when storm-related disruptions occur. The responses from lines can also vary depending on the circumstances surrounding any given storm.

To avoid remorse, my advice is to go into any hurricane-season booking assuming you will not be compensated for storm-caused itinerary changes and not be able to get a refund if you cancel the trip at the last minute.

The risk of the above is one reason you will generally get a cruise during hurricane season at a lower price than you would during other seasons.

Build wiggle room into your hurricane season travel schedule

If you're booking a cruise during hurricane season, keep in mind that tropical weather can affect not only cruise ships but airplanes, too.

If you're flying to your cruise departure point, build in plenty of wiggle room in case air travel is affected by a big storm and flights are delayed. Your flight could be delayed by a storm that is far away from the destination where you are flying. During hurricane season, tropical storms moving through the Caribbean and into the Gulf of Mexico and up the East Coast of the U.S. can sometimes snarl air traffic across a wide swath of North America.

At TPG , we always suggest that cruisers head to their departure ports at least a full day in advance of their sailings just to be safe, and this is doubly important during hurricane season. You don't want a delayed flight to be the reason you miss your cruise .

Travel insurance is key for fall cruises

It's always a good idea to book flights and cruises with a card that provides travel protections — and this is especially important during hurricane season.

Some cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , will reimburse you for at least some of the costs of trip delays, cancellations and interruptions related to severe weather if you have booked the trip on the card. The travel protection benefits provided by such cards may also reimburse you for expenses when your baggage is lost or delayed.

Just be warned that these benefits often come with a lot of fine print that can make it tough to collect in some circumstances.

You can also buy separate travel insurance just for the single trip that will provide reimbursement if you experience trip delays, cancellations or interruptions. These plans include a lot of fine print that limits the circumstances where they are valid, and they vary widely in what they offer.

While travel insurance policies often will cover the cost of changing a flight or pre-cruise hotel reservation if a storm delays your cruise departure, they generally don't offer compensation in the case that a cruise line changes the ports on your cruise due to a storm. Travel insurance policies also won't help if you cancel a cruise to avoid a storm — unless you've bought a pricey "cancel for any reason" policy.

Also note that to make any claim under a travel insurance policy related to a cruise marred by a hurricane or tropical storm, you have to have bought the policy before the storm formed and was officially named.

Related: The 5 best cruise travel insurance plans

You may experience rough seas

Cruise lines will reroute ships by hundreds of miles to avoid tropical storms and hurricanes. That doesn't mean you can always expect smooth sailing during hurricane season.

If a big storm is present in the Caribbean or Bahamas, there's a chance you'll feel some motion on your vessel, even if it's far from the center of the storm. Swells from big storms can travel thousands of miles.

If you're particularly prone to seasickness , hurricane season might not be the best time for you to cruise. But don't panic. Cruise ships are built with sophisticated stabilizers that tamp down the effects of waves. As ships have gotten bigger, on average, they've also become more stable. It takes a lot to move a giant vessel like Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas — at 236,857 tons, it's one of the world's largest cruise ships.

Any rough seas you may experience due to a nearby storm are likely to be temporary. Many cruise ships operating in the Caribbean can sail at speeds of up to 22 knots, or about 25 mph. That means they can move as much as 300 miles in one day. You can be somewhere stormy and rough one day only to find yourself in sunny and clear conditions a day later.

Just as airline pilots maneuver to avoid turbulence , cruise ship captains and their headquarters-based overseers are keenly aware of passenger safety and comfort. They aren't shy about making a call to reposition a vessel to calmer seas.

Be careful booking shore excursions during hurricane season

Not all cruisers book shore tours through their cruise line. Some book excursions through alternative tour companies such as Viator or PortSide Tours. If you go this route for a hurricane-season cruise, be sure to check cancellation policies before prepaying for excursions.

While cruise lines will automatically refund you for prepaid shore excursions you've booked directly with them in the case of a canceled port call, it isn't a given that an outside tour company will do the same. Some will, for sure, but others require a nonrefundable deposit that may be hard to get back, even in the case of a storm-caused itinerary change. (Note: Travel insurance policies sometimes cover the cost of lost nonrefundable deposits.)

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Bottom line

Cruises that take place in the Caribbean and the Bahamas during the height of hurricane season can be an incredible deal, and many are completed with nary a problem. However, before booking one, you want to be sure you're OK with the idea that your itinerary could change on short notice or be disrupted in some other way. It doesn't happen often, but it does happen.

If you're booking a cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas to see a specific destination — St. Kitts, for instance, or the British Virgin Islands — a hurricane-season cruise may not be for you. However, if you're flexible and want a fun and inexpensive getaway at sea, there's no reason to fear a fall sailing.

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What happens if there is a storm while on a cruise?

Don’t worry if your cruise gets hit by the storm! Your cruise captain has it all under control. The crew members will take care of your safety and concerns first.

Book A Cruise Now

Imagine you are having the best time of your life on the cruise trip , and then suddenly, it’s all dark and gloomy. The unpredictable storm may crash down all your cruise fantasies. But guess what? Modern technology and development have enabled it to fight storms to a certain extent.

Today, cruises are well-prepared to combat any weather mishaps, making it a hassle-free trip for their guests. All the staff members of the cruise ships are adequately trained to fight any uncalled circumstances without letting it trouble any guest. There is a high chance your trip won’t be compromised.

Your cruise line will leave no stone unturned to make your trip worthwhile despite any uncertainty. There are several ways a cruise line ensures the safety of its guests. Below are some reassurances that you will get complete protection on a cruise trip.

1. Expert cruise staff

Have you heard the myth that open water is the scariest place to be in uncertain weather conditions? Probably yes! But the truth is quite the opposite. In a cruise ship, a captain can sail the ship out of the way of a storm. Cruises lines have a meteorologist working with the staff who is there to predict any uncertainty in the weather. Their skills make it easier for the captain to sail out on time. Not just that, all the guests are also taken to a safe space where they can engage in other activities until the storm is gone.

2. Stabilizers as backups for cruise ships

Do you know all reputed cruise ships have stabilizers that are used in extreme cases? Probably not! A stabilizer works like an aeroplane wing to ensure the guests' safety. These are generally installed for stormy situations that may go out of hand. The stabilizers lift the ship over the rough waves without the guests even getting aware of it. Such measures are pre-installed in every cruise to face crises like these. Now you can be sure to have a smooth sea sail.

3. 24*7 Weather tracking

Why fear when there is round-the-clock weather tracking on your cruise ship? That’s true! Cruise ships are well-packed with the latest technological radars and satellites that constantly track weather. Besides the equipment, a skilled professional on the cruise is employed just to track down the uncertainty in the weather. They are trained to alert the ship staff beforehand in severe cases.

Also Check: What cruise line is best for singles?

4. Frequent updates from the captain

We all hate receiving bad news! But you will find yourself attentive to each update when it’s about the ship you are in. From weather announcements to wavy route alerts, you will receive all the updates from your captain. Such announcements are the best way to alert the guests so they don’t panic when the storm strikes. This way, you will also get assurance on the safety measures taken by the team. Set aside all your inhibitions and prepare yourself for a dreamlike trip.

Ships can sail in all seasons — If you are still waiting for a perfect season to book your cruise trip , then now is the time to end your long wait. There is no such thing as an ideal time for booking a cruise trip , as cruises are designed to sail through all the seasons. It rarely matters if you book your journey in the summer or winter. A cruise ship makes all weather bearable without messing with your travel itineraries. So, if you are deeply concerned about a storm ruining your trip, you can consult the cruise line you are booking. Also, check the weather conditions of the travel place. The cruise liners keep guest safety as their first responsibility.

Final takeaways

Weather disruptions amidst the sea can be scary. In times like these, you may panic and whine, thinking your trip is ruined. The cruise lines these days are packed with safety equipment.

There are several ways a cruise line provides complete security to its guests. 24*7 weather tracking is one of the significant safety measures a ship opts for to combat all the uncertainty beforehand. So your trip will be well-spent when your cruise has got everything. Get ready to hit the waves without worrying about the waves crashing you!

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What You Need to Know About Cruises in Bad Weather, According to an Expert

From rough seas to hurricane season, here's how to handle cruising during a storm.

Weather can be unpredictable. And when you plan your cruise vacation months — and sometimes even more than a year — in advance, it’s impossible to anticipate.

Cruises are often planned well in advance of the actual trip and, unfortunately, sometimes even the best plans are thwarted. That’s what happened when a group of passengers on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship staged a protest in 2019 after bad weather forced them to miss several ports on their European voyage.

The cruise on Norwegian Spirit (with a capacity of just over 2,000 guests) left from Southampton, England, and planned to make stops in the Netherlands, Norway, and Iceland — none of which they reached. A spokeswoman for the cruise line told The New York Times that “severe weather conditions” caused the itinerary changes and that the cruise line offered passengers 25 percent off the cost of a future cruise. However, passengers complaining about other issues like clogged toilets staged a protest, demanding a refund.

While weather is as uncertain as playing the lottery, changing an itinerary is a calculated decision, Colleen McDaniel, the editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic , told Travel + Leisure.

“[For] cruise lines, their No. 1 priority is going to be guest safety,” McDaniel said. “It is not just the decision of the onboard crew… it’s a team who makes that decision based on the latest weather patterns, based on the options or other alternatives.”

And while it is no doubt very frustrating if you’re forced to miss several planned stops, McDaniel said that cruise lines are often under no obligation to offer a refund.

“When itineraries change, they’re pretty well protected by the contract that every person on board their ships signs,” she said, adding that any refund offered is “actually above and beyond what they’re legally required to do. For some passengers that doesn’t sound great, but they are covered by that contract.”

So what can you do if you’ve packed your bags, booked your flights, and updated your out-of-office message for your dream cruise and the weather decides to rain on your plans? Cruises in storms are never ideal, but here's how to plan ahead and make the most of your trip.

Be aware of what is going on at all times.

McDaniel said it’s important to listen to announcements and be very clear with the situation on board. It’s imperative that you get the most up-to-date information from the staff who know it best and don’t rely on rumors or hearsay.

Though your itinerary may change, cruises are rarely canceled due to storms. Ships are designed to handle rough seas and can be rerouted to avoid danger. Once you're on board, any port updates will be announced over the ship’s intercom or detailed in a notice delivered to your stateroom.

Use a travel agent.

McDaniel said that using a travel agent to book your trip could save you a headache in the end.

“This person becomes your travel advocate,” she said. “They're someone who has relationships with the cruise line — when something goes wrong, they can be your advocate.”

While cruise ships aren't obligated to offer refunds, you'll often get a small reimbursement for missed ports.

Stay organized.

If you are offered any kind of compensation, McDaniel recommends writing down all the information.

“Get people's names and write down what the compensation was,” she said, adding you also have to be patient: “Be aware that there are countless cruise ships out in port at any time and so it might take some time to hear back."

Prevent seasickness.

Cruising in bad weather can lead to seasickness, so you'll want to take immediate steps to ensure you won't be confined to your cabin with a stomach ache. Some options include taking an over-the-counter medication like Dramamine or Bonine, using an acupressure wristband, or applying a patch like Transderm Scop before you step on board.

Plan alternative activities.

Though some excursions like helicopter rides or kayaking tours might be scrapped, you may still be able to go shopping, visit a museum, or go on a bus tour. Your cruise line will likely refund you for any excursions you booked through them, while private tour operators usually issue refunds upon request.

Since outdoor activities on board, such as pools and rock climbing walls, might be unavailable, your best bet is to find something to do indoors. The ship will usually offer additional programming, so pay attention to announcements and do your best to get into the spa, evening entertainment, or specialty restaurants, since these will be more in demand.

Know that you can leave.

If you’re not enjoying the cruise or not doing what you hoped to, you can leave the ship early as a last resort.

“Ultimately, if you feel like you're not getting the cruise you want, you can leave,” McDaniel said, “but it’s going to be on you.”

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Norwegian cruise ship hit by storm and left without power in North Sea

The MS Maud's 266 passengers and 131 crew were safe and two towage vessels from a civil rescue firm were helping to keep it stable, Danish authorities said.

Friday 22 December 2023 10:29, UK

A Norwegian cruise ship has been left without power in the North Sea after a rogue wave and hurricane-force winds shattered windows on its bridge, Danish authorities have said.

The MS Maud's 266 passengers and 131 crew were safe, a spokesperson for the Danish Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (DJRC) told Reuters.

They added that two towage vessels from a civil rescue firm were helping to keep it stable.

"They just need to calmly get through the storm, and they do this by sailing upwind," the spokesperson said.

The vessel left Floroe in Norway on Thursday and was due to arrive in Tilbury in the UK on Friday.

It was sailing around 120 miles (200km) off Denmark's west coast and 205 miles (330km) off the east coast of the UK when water entered the vessel's bridge, resulting in a power outage.

Its main engine was still functioning, allowing the ship to be steered manually from the engine room.

Data from the shipping traffic website Vesselfinder.com showed on Friday that MS Maud had barely moved since Thursday night.

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The ship belongs to cruise company HX, which said on Thursday that it had suffered "a temporary loss of power" and the crew and passengers were safe.

It was not clear where the vessel would go next.

Read more: Delays at Dover as Britons prepare to travel for Christmas Eurostar trains to resume after strike despite storm disruption

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Last month around 100 passengers were injured on a cruise ship when it got caught in a storm in the Bay of Biscay.

The Spirit of Discovery was nearing the end of a 14-night round trip to the Canary Islands when it was hit by severe weather, including waves said to have been at least 9m high.

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Video shows moments before superyacht went down in storm off Sicily

Newly released video captures a luxury superyacht being battered by a violent storm before it suddenly sank off Sicily with 22 people aboard Monday.

The grainy images obtained by NBC News and other outlets were recorded on closed-circuit television not far from where the Bayesian was anchored, about a half-mile from the port of Porticello, on Sicily’s northern coast .

The yacht's 250-foot mast, illuminated with lights and lashed by the storm, appears to bend to one side before it finally disappears and is replaced by darkness.

The speed with which a yacht built to handle the roughest seas capsized stunned maritime experts.  

“I can’t remember the last time I read about a vessel going down quickly like that, you know, completely capsizing and going down that quickly, a vessel of that nature, a yacht of that size,” said Stephen Richter of SAR Marine Consulting.

British tech tycoon Mike Lynch and five of the 22 other people who were aboard the 184-foot vessel remain unaccounted for and are believed to be trapped in the Bayesian’s hull, nearly 170 feet underwater.

Officials confirmed Monday that at least one person, the ship’s cook, had died.  

Superyachts like the Bayesian, which had been available for charters at a rate of $215,000 a week, are designed to stay afloat even as they are taking on water to give the people aboard a chance to escape, Richter said. 

“Boats of this size, they’re taking passengers on an excursion or a holiday,” Richter said. “They are not going to put them in situations where it may be dangerous or it may be uncomfortable, so this storm that popped up was obviously an anomaly. These vessels that carry passengers, they’re typically very well-maintained, very well-appointed.”

Built by Italian shipbuilder Perini Navi in 2008, the U.K.-registered Bayesian could carry 12 guests and a crew of up to 10, according to online specialist yacht sites. Its nearly 250-foot mast is the tallest aluminum sailing mast in the world, according to CharterWorld Luxury Yacht Charters. 

On Tuesday, Italian rescue workers resumed the search for Lynch and the five other passengers still missing: Lynch’s 18-year-old daughter, Hannah; Morgan Stanley International Chairman Jonathan Bloomer and his wife; and Clifford Chance lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife.

“The fear is that the bodies got trapped inside the vessel,” Salvatore Cocina, the head of civil protection in Sicily, told Reuters .

The Bayesian is owned by a firm linked to Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, who was one of the 15 people rescued Monday after it capsized.

“It’s extremely rare for a boat of this size to sink,” Richter said.

What’s not rare is the kind of storm that sank it , said Simon Boxall, senior lecturer in oceanography at Britain’s University of Southampton.

“People assume the Mediterranean is this rather calm and passive place that never gets storms and always blue skies,” Boxall said. “In fact, you get some quite horrendous storms that are not uncommon at this time of year.”

The president of Italy’s meteorological society has said Monday’s violent storm may have involved a waterspout, essentially a tornado over water, or a downburst, which occurs more frequently but doesn’t involve the rotation of the air.

Luca Mercalli, president of the Italian Meteorology Society, also said recent temperatures may have been a factor. 

“The sea surface temperature around Sicily was around 30 degrees Celsius [86 Fahrenheit], which is almost 3 degrees more than normal,” Mercalli told Reuters. “This creates an enormous source of energy that contributes to these storms.”

The Mediterranean sailing vacation was designed to be a celebration for Lynch, who two months ago was acquitted by a San Francisco jury of fraud charges stemming from the 2011 sale of his software company Autonomy to Hewlett-Packard for $11 billion.

Prosecutors alleged that Lynch, dubbed “Britain’s Bill Gates,” and Autonomy’s vice president for finance, Stephen Chamberlain, had padded the firm’s finances ahead of the sale. Lynch’s lawyers argued that HP was so eager to acquire Autonomy that it failed to adequately check the books .

Lynch had taken Morvill, who was one of his defense attorneys, on the luxury trip. 

Chamberlain was not on the Bayesian.

In what appears to be a tragic coincidence, a car struck and killed Chamberlain on Saturday as he was jogging in a village about 68 miles north of London, local police said.

“Steve fought successfully to clear his good name at trial earlier this year, and his good name now lives on through his wonderful family,” Chamberlain’s lawyer, Gary Lincenberg, said in a statement .

Henry Austin reported from London and Corky Siemaszko from New York City.

Henry Austin is a senior editor for NBC News Digital based in London.

Corky Siemaszko is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital.

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WATCH: Cruise Passengers Share Terrifying Videos from 'Nightmare' Storm at Sea

The Carnival Sunshine cruise ship made it back to port safely on Saturday after being stuck in a storm between the Bahamas and Charleston, S.C. for 15 hours

The Carnival Sunshine cruise ship made it back to port nine hours later than planned after sailing through a terrifying storm on Friday night.

The ship was on its way to Charleston, S.C. from the Bahamas when it got caught in severe weather, including nearly 80 mph winds. Passengers on board shared details and footage of the chaos and destruction caused by the storm on social media. Thankfully, Carnival told PEOPLE in a statement provided below that "no one was seriously injured."

Crew Center, a cruise ship information site, posted a video on Twitter showing a flooded hallway, torn-off doors and other debris and destruction on board.

"The aftermath aboard Carnival Sunshine after a severe storm," the post read. "The crew from Deck 0-4 evacuated to the theater, and anywhere they could rest… the crew bar destroyed."

brad morrell/storyful

Passenger Daniel Taylor told Newsweek that the captain made an announcement around 4:45 p.m. saying that they would be experiencing a delay due to "adverse weather conditions," expressing that they "would do everything they could to minimize discomfort.

By dinner time, public decks had been closed off, and plates and cups were flying off the buffet areas, he recalled.

By the early hours of Saturday morning, he said, "We were no longer able to see where we were going, how fast we were going, what the wind speed was, or anything. We were blind to what was going on." Swells were hitting the ship "over and over," said Taylor, who also recalled seeing crew members wearing life vests.

At that point, the internet was also out, so those on board couldn't get any additional information or reach loved ones.

Matthew Branham, who was also on board, told The Washington Post , that "waves were hitting the boat so hard that it was like an earthquake experience, jarring you like a really rough roller coaster — even in the middle floor."

TVs were falling off walls and glasses shattering. “You could not stand up in your room,” he said. “You could be thrown from the bed."

Another passenger, RJ Whited, wrote in a since-deleted Facebook post cited by Newsweek , "Our cruise ship last night was literally sideways and slung everything in our room breaking, people in the hallways throwing up and sleeping on the stairs."

Added Whited, "We also found out that they knew about the storm and instead of us staying back to ride it out a few hours they hit it head-on so we could make it back for the other cruise to be on time."

Finally, the ship made it back to Charleston around 7:30 a.m., though it couldn't immediately dock due to continuing rough weather.

At 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, the ship was able to dock.

Summing up the "nightmare" experience, passenger Christa Seifert-Alicea told NBC News 4 : "What we endured is indescribable, not only to feel it yourself but to hear and see it set in on every single person around you from adult, child and the elderly is something I will never forget."

In a statement to PEOPLE on Wednesday, Carnival said: "Carnival Sunshine's return to Charleston was impacted by the weather and rough seas on Saturday. The weather's prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship's arrival and as a result, the next voyage's embarkation was also delayed. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests." The statement claims that "the ship's crew followed our protocols for rough weather" noting, "thankfully, no one was seriously injured."

"The weather was unexpectedly strong, causing conditions that were rougher than forecasted," the statement continues. "Given the circumstances as they were, the ship's officers and our Fleet Operations Center team using real time meteorology data coordinated to keep the ship in its safest location. Attempting to sail out of the large front could have been dangerous. The ship proceeded to the port as soon as the weather began to clear." The cruise line's statement also said that the captain "made several announcements about the weather and the delay" but noted "some of the worst weather occurred in the overnight hours when announcements are not typically made."

The Carnival Sunshine is already on its next voyage, the cruise line confirmed.

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A METEOROLOGIST SHARES

Why cruising is safe during hurricane season, james van fleet, the first chief meteorologist in the cruise industry, gives us five reasons why it's still a good time to cruise during hurricane season..

Wave Season is the time to plan an escape to warmer weather or anywhere with Royal Caribbean—and for a great deal.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

Great vacations are made up of adventures, memorable moments and ideal weather. However, we all know the weather can be unpredictable. What if we told you there’s a vacation you could take and have zero worries about the forecast literally raining on your parade? That vacation is a cruise —yes, really.

No matter the weather that’s brewing, you can count on catching perfect waves on the FlowRider surf simulator and braving the tallest slide at sea when you’re on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Cruise ships easily travel from one place to the next, meaning they can conveniently ditch bad weather at a moment’s notice. Take it from James Van Fleet, Royal Caribbean’s chief meteorologist and the first in the cruise industry . He keeps an eye on our 25-plus ships and two private destinations around the clock, so that you can keep the good times rolling.

Read on for five reasons why it’s safe to cruise during hurricane season, according to Chief Meteorologist Van Fleet:

Royal Caribbean Chief Meteorologist Van Fleet records frequent weather updates during hurricane season.

1.  Cruise Ships Are a Safe Place to Be

One of the best parts about taking a cruise vacation is that you can easily head to better weather—think sun, sand and a cocktail in hand. And as you’re headed toward clearer skies, there are plenty of ways you and the whole family can enjoy yourselves—like watching jaw-dropping shows across air, water, ice and stage to roller skating, laser tag and bumper cars.

Van Fleet: A common misconception is that the open water is the most dangerous place to be in inclement weather. It’s actually the total opposite: If a storm is coming your way on land, you have fewer options. Your home is a potential target that can’t be moved. On a cruise ship, captains can sail out of the way—and quickly. Having a dedicated meteorologist working with the teams on board to look at weather patterns and make real-time decisions makes all the difference, too, because we’re able to get in front of what’s developing and immediately communicate that to our crew and guests.

2.  The Ocean Is Actually Calmer During Hurricane Season

When asked if the seas are rougher during  hurricane season , Van Fleet said there’s no need to worry.

Van Fleet: That’s actually a myth. In fact, the high-pressure and humid temperatures associated with hurricane season settle the seas. The Atlantic Ocean, the  Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico are all much calmer in the summer than they are in the winter. So, it’s actually still a good time to take a cruise.

3.  Ships Have Stabilizers For Smooth Sailing

Even if the conditions do happen to get choppy, every Royal Caribbean ship has features and capabilities to help things go as smoothly as possible so that you’ll hardly notice .

Van Fleet: For example, all Royal Caribbean cruise ships have stabilizers that act like airplane wings. When you think about it, air is water vapor, so these stabilizers essentially lift the ship over waves the same way a wing lifts a plane over rough air. This keeps the “rise and fall” from being too noticeable.

Van Fleet normally monitors the weather from Royal Caribbean’s Miami headquarters.

Credit: Royal Caribbean Press Center

4.  There’s ‘Round the Clock Weather Tracking

Royal Caribbean uses sophisticated technology , from computers and satellites to radars and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), to track and monitor weather around the world. Van Fleet even keeps portable tracking devices with him at all times.

Van Fleet: What’s more, there are  officers on board always monitoring information provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). They’re stationed throughout the ship to make sure everyone is safe should inclement weather arise.

5.  You’ll Get Frequent Updates

Van Fleet and the crew make it a point to keep everyone in the loop as much as possible so that guests know what to expect when it comes to updates and possible rerouting.

Van Fleet: The captain will make weather announcements, and I record forecast videos that play in every stateroom. I also rely on social media to give updates—it’s one of the fastest ways to connect with everyone. If you follow me on Twitter , you’ll get the latest and greatest directly from me, too.

On a Royal Caribbean cruise, the forecast is always smooth sailing. Whether you’re looking to kick back by the pool with a cocktail and live music, take on thrills like the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator or get a taste of the world of flavors on board, the weather will be an afterthought.

Ready to experience all the adventure, entertainment, dining, nightlife and more on your next vacation (rain or shine)? Head here to find your cruise.

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Passengers on 3-year cruise speak out as ship remains stuck in harbor

The Villa Vie Odyssey is now three months past its original launch date.

Passengers planning to travel the world on a three-year cruise are speaking out as they remain stuck on land, waiting for their ship to depart.

Holly Hennessy said she has been stuck in Belfast, Ireland, for three months as she and her fellow passengers wait for the cruise ship, the Villa Vie Odyssey, to be repaired.

"It's cold. It's windy. It's damp. It usually rains," Hennessy told " Good Morning America ," describing the past three months in Belfast. "I've been moved five times to different accommodations."

Johan Bodin and his partner Lanette Canen have spent the past three months traveling around Europe as they wait for the ship to depart from Belfast. The couple relocated from Maui, Hawaii, to spend the next several years on the Villa Vie Odyssey, according to their website, where they post travel content.

"We intend to stay on for a long haul, but who knows how we feel after a year," Bodin told "GMA."

Bodin and other passengers on the Villa Vie Odyssey, operated by Villa Vie Residences, have been waiting since May for the cruise to depart.

Mikael Petterson, the founder and CEO of Villa Vie Residences, told "GMA" the Villa Vie Odyssey is a 30-year-old ship. He said the ship made the trip to Belfast on its own power before other maintenance issues were discovered.

"The rudder stocks took six weeks to get done, and now we're dealing with a couple of other things," Petterson said. "But overall, I think three months is actually not that bad given the circumstances."

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Petterson added that the ship's repairs are in their final stages, and said he expects the ship to depart the week of Sept. 9.

The cruise is advertised to visit 475 destinations in 147 countries. The price to purchase an all-inclusive cabin starts at around $100,000, with an additional monthly fee for at least 15 years.

While the Villa Vie Odyssey has been out of commission, passengers are allowed on the ship during the day but cannot stay overnight, staying in hotel rooms in Belfast instead.

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Canen said she and Bodin are optimistic that after months of delays, they will sail out of Belfast soon.

"Hopefully by next weekend, we'll be floating away, saying goodbye to Belfast," Canen said.

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As Hone moves away from Hawaii, concerns it could spark wildfires vanish

Updated on: August 26, 2024 / 5:54 AM EDT / CBS/AP

Hone passed south of Hawaii and weakened from a hurricane to a tropical storm on Sunday, dumping so much rain that the National Weather Service called off its red flag warnings that strong winds could lead to wildfires on the drier sides of the islands.

Meanwhile, the eastern Pacific saw a new threat emerge as Tropical Storm Hector formed, packing top sustained winds of 45 mph. There were no coastal watches or warnings in effect as Hector churned far out at sea, the National Hurricane Center said.

Hone had top winds of 70 mph late Sunday night Hawaii time as it swirled slowly, passing about 180 miles southwest of Honolulu and 185 miles south of Lihue, according to an 11 p.m. advisory from the National Weather Service's Central Pacific Hurricane Center and the National Hurricane Center. A storm needs maximum sustained winds for 74 mph to be classified as a hurricane.

Jon Jelsema, a senior forecaster at the Central Pacific Hurricane Center, said earlier Sunday that tropical storm force winds were blowing across the island's southeast-facing slopes, carrying up to a foot or more of rain.

Floods closed Highway 11 between Kona and Hilo and a higher-altitude alternative, the Cane Road, was closed by flooding as well, isolating properties like the Aikane Plantation Coffee Co. outside Pahala, where owner Phil Becker said his 10-inch rain gauge overflowed in the deluge.

"We've got quite a lot of flood damage, the gulches are running full speed ahead and they're overflowing the bridges, so we're trapped down here, we can't get in or out," Becker said Sunday.

Becker said his plantation is off the grid, powered with batteries charged by solar electricity, and his family is safe so they have no reason to evacuate. The weather may even prove beneficial: "We've been in a drought situation so the coffee is probably loving all this rain," he said.

Hurricane Gilma, meanwhile, weakened to a still-major Category 3 hurricane Saturday night, but it was far east of Hawaii and forecast to weaken into a depression before it reaches the islands. Gilma was expected to remain a hurricane through Tuesday and at 11 p.m. Hawaii time Sunday was 1,260 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii  with top winds of 100 mph.

Shelters were opened as Hurricane Hone blew in and beach parks on the eastern side of the Big Island were closed due to dangerously high surf, Hawaii County Mayor Mitch Roth said.

Jelsema offered a vivid metaphor for the rainfall: "As the rain gets pushed up the mountain terrain it wrings it out, kind of like wringing out a wet towel," he said.

"It's been really soaking those areas, there's been flooding of roads. Roads have been cut off by high flood waters there in the windward sections of the big island, and really that's the only portion of the state that's had much flooding concern at this point," he said.

Hone, whose name is Hawaiian for "sweet and soft," poked at memories still fresh of last year's deadly blazes on Maui, which were fueled by hurricane-force winds. Red flag alerts are issued when warm temperatures, very low humidity and stronger winds combine to raise fire dangers. Most of the archipelago is already abnormally dry or in drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

The Aug. 8, 2023, blaze that torched the historic town of Lahaina was the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century, with 102 killed. Dry, overgrown grasses and drought helped spread the flames.

Calvin Endo, a Waianae Coast neighborhood board member who lives in Makaha, a leeward Oahu neighborhood prone to wildfires, has worried for years about dry brush on private property behind his home. He's taken matters into his own hands by clearing the brush himself, but he's concerned about nearby homes abutting overgrown vegetation.

"All you need is fire and wind and we'll have another Lahaina," Endo said as the storm approached. "I notice the wind started to kick up already."

The cause of the Lahaina blaze is still under investigation, but it's possible it was ignited by bare electrical wire and leaning power poles toppled by the strong winds. The state's two power companies, Hawaiian Electric and the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative, were prepared to shut off power if necessary to reduce the chance that live, damaged power lines could start fires, but they later said the safety measures wouldn't be necessary as Hone blew past the islands.

Roth said a small blaze that started Friday night in Waikoloa, on the dry side of the Big Island, was brought under control without injuries or damage.

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Inside Nicole Kidman's relationship with Tom Cruise — from their whirlwind romance to 'shock' divorce

Nicole kidman and tom cruise were married for more than a decade.

There was once a time where Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise were one of Hollywood's major power couples. Married for 11 years, the couple met as two of the industry's bright young stars and would collaborate three times over the course of their relationship.

When the couple first met, Tom was known as the Top Gun hot shot, making his name in films like Rain Man and The Color of Money , Meanwhile, Nicole was just breaking out in Hollywood having starred in a number of Australian movies.

Their relationship would go on to cause intrigue over the years, from their intense working relationship and fertility issues, to their two adopted children and eventual divorce in 2001. 

But what's the full story? Here's everything we know.

Meeting on Days of Thunder

Nicole and Tom met while filming Days of Thunder in 1990, where the Top Gun actor immediately made an impression on 23-year-old Nicole. 

"I remember being so nervous and seeing Tom Cruise drive up in a Porsche," Nicole recalled on The Jess Cagle Show in 2016. "He got out of the car and walked through the door, and I was like, 'Ah.' My jaw dropped."

Their private wedding ceremony

Tom made such an impression that they married less than a year after first meeting in a private ceremony with only family members attending in December 1990.

Fertility issues

Early on in their widely-publicized marriage, the couple's fertility issues hit the spotlight when Vanity Fair reported that Nicole lost a baby when she was 23. Nicole would later correct this: "So it's huge news, and it didn't happen. I had a miscarriage at the end of my marriage, but I had an ectopic pregnancy at the beginning of my marriage. It was incredibly traumatic for me."

Adopting their kids

The couple had two kids together while married, adopting Isabella shortly after she was born in 1992, before going on to adopt Connor in 1995 not long after he was born. Tom would say on fatherhood: "I was scared to death. Scared to death!" He joked to Vanity Fair that he "didn't know what the hell I was doing" when it came to changing diapers.

Eyes Wide Shut

Nicole and Tom worked together for their third and final time in Stanley Kubrick's controversial final film Eyes Wide Shut . The couple started filming in 1996, and production took 400 days to film, making it the longest continuous film shoot according to Guinness World Records.

Nicole maintains that the couple remained happy while filming, although their living quarters were certainly unusual: "We had two kids and were living in a trailer on the lot primarily, making spaghetti because Stanley liked to eat with us sometimes," she told The New York Times in 2020. "We were working with the greatest filmmaker and learning about our lives and enjoying our lives on set."

High profile divorce

Tom filed for divorce in 2001 citing irreconcilable differences, which was a "major shock" to Nicole. While she was spotted leaving her attorney's office and celebrating her divorce from the star, she would say years later that the divorce was hard.

"He was huge; still is. To me, he was just Tom, but to everybody else, he is huge. But he was lovely to me. And I loved him. I still love him," she told Ladies' Home Journal in 2006.

How they moved on

After going their separate ways, the couple moved on with different partners. Tom would date Penélope Cruz, before marrying Katie Holmes with whom he'd have a daughter called Suri. Katie and Tom also divorced in 2012. Nicole dated and was briefly engaged to Lenny Kravitz in 2003, before eventually settling down with country star Keith Urban who she has been with ever since 2006.

The couple's relationship with their grown up kids

Reports have suggested that Nicole may have a tricky relationship with Connor and Isabella, who were raised as Scientologists by Tom and still practice the religion. Tom is often spotted with the duo, who are all grown up .

However, the Oscar winning actress has insisted that she tries to maintain her incredibly private relationship with her elder children

She told The Sun : "Motherhood is about the journey. There are going to be incredible peaks and valleys, whether you are an adopting mother or a birth mother. What a child needs is love. They have made choices to be Scientologists. It’s our job as a parent to always offer unconditional love."

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Thunderstorm.ws

thunderstorm on cruise ship

Severe Thunderstorm Warning thunderstorm on cruise ship with 10-day Weather forcast

On Tuesday during the day, expect overcast skies with a high of 9°C. Winds will be from the northeast at 16 km/h. Humidity levels will be at 62%, and the UV index is 4 out of 11. Sunrise is at 6:48 am, and sunset is at 7:15 pm. As night falls on Tuesday, the weather will be cloudy with a low around 5°C. Winds will be light and variable from the northeast at 7 km/h. There’s a 23% chance of rain during the night. Tuesday, March 26: ☁️ Overcast, 9°C / 5°C, 4% chance of rain, Wind: NE 16 km/h Wednesday, March 27: PM Showers, 13°C / 8°C, 45% chance of rain, Wind: ESE 5 km/h Thursday, March 28: Rain,

What Constitutes a thunderstorm on cruise ship?

Thunderstorms are common atmospheric phenomena, but what differentiates a regular thunderstorm from a severe one? A thunderstorm is classified as severe when it exhibits one or more of the following characteristics:

• Winds exceeding 58 miles per hour
• Hail one inch in diameter or larger

These elements can cause significant damage to properties, lead to injuries, and at times be fatal.

thunderstorm on cruise ship: Immediate Action Required

When a severe thunderstorm warning is issued by the National Weather Service (NWS), it means that a severe thunderstorm is occurring or imminent in the warning area. This alert is typically based on specific criteria being met or exceeded, which include radar observations and eyewitness reports. The warning will provide details on the location, the affected areas, and the duration.

Actions to Take During a Severe Thunderstorm Warning

• Seek shelter immediately, preferably inside a sturdy building.
• Avoid windows as high winds and hail can break glass.
• If outdoors with no shelter available, find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles.
• Never shelter under an isolated tree.
• If you’re driving, pull over and stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows, covering with your hands and a blanket if possible.

Be Prepared: thunderstorm on cruise ship

A thunderstorm on cruise ship is issued when conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and around the watch area. It does not mean that a severe thunderstorm is occurring, but it is a heads-up to stay alert.

How to Stay Informed

During a thunderstorm on cruise ship, keep an eye on the sky and stay updated through:

• Local news outlets
• Weather apps and websites
• NOAA Weather Radio

It’s also wise to review your severe weather plan and check on supplies like flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning Update: Stay Informed

Updates to severe thunderstorm warnings can occur for a few reasons:

• The storm has intensified, and the threat level has increased.
• The storm has moved, expanding to new areas or exiting the warned area.
• The warning period has been extended due to the storm’s persistence.

Updates will come from the same sources that provide the initial warnings, so it’s important to keep those communication lines open.

Shower and Bath During a Thunderstorm: Is It Safe?

It may be surprising, but it is advisable to avoid showering or taking a bath during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through plumbing, and water conducts electricity, which means there’s a risk of getting shocked.

Safety Tips:

• Postpone baths and showers until after the storm passes.
• Avoid using sinks or faucets.
• Do not touch electrical equipment or cords.

Bathing During a Thunderstorm: A Deeper Dive into the Risks

While it’s a less common occurrence, there are documented cases of people being electrocuted by lightning while bathing during a storm. This is because lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing system. Although the odds are low, the risk is significant enough that experts recommend waiting to take a bath or shower.

Myth-Busting: Lightning and Cars

It’s a widespread belief that vehicles with rubber tires provide complete protection from lightning. In reality, it’s the metal shell of a car that disperses the lightning charge, not the tires. So while you’re generally safe in a car, it’s not because of the tires.

Preparing Your Home for Severe Weather

Preparing your home for severe weather is just as important as personal preparedness. Simple steps can prevent major damage:

• Trim trees and branches that could fall on your home.
• Secure loose objects in your yard that could become projectiles.
• Consider installing storm shutters.
• Investigate whether flood insurance is appropriate for your home.
• Reinforce your garage door; they are often vulnerable to high winds.

Severe Weather Preparedness: Beyond thunderstorm on cruise ship

Severe weather can encompass a variety of events, including hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, and more. Preparing for these events involves:

• Creating a disaster plan for your family.
• Building an emergency kit with essential supplies.
• Learning the evacuation routes in your area.
• Staying informed about your local weather and heeding official warnings and advisories.

Education and preparation can significantly reduce the risks associated with severe weather. By understanding severe thunderstorm warnings and watches, knowing how to react, and preparing for severe weather events, you can help ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

The Violent Beauty of Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms and thunderstorm on cruise ship are a spectacular display of Earth’s atmospheric power. Beyond their visual and auditory drama, these natural events play a crucial role in our ecosystem. They replenish our water supply, help balance the electrical charge in our atmosphere, and can even bring relief from prolonged heat. However, when their force turns severe, the consequences can be devastating.

The Science Behind Severe Thunderstorms and thunderstorm on cruise ship

Severe thunderstorms and thunderstorm on cruise ship are not random occurrences; they are the result of specific atmospheric conditions. When warm, moist air rises and collides with cooler air, the result can be a violent thunderstorm. Understanding the science of thunderstorm formation helps meteorologists predict these events and issue timely warnings.

Understanding Instability and Wind Shear

Instability and wind shear are two key ingredients in the formation of severe thunderstorms. Instability occurs when warm air exists below much cooler air in the atmosphere, leading to rising motion which can produce thunderstorms. Wind shear, the change in wind speed and/or direction with height, contributes to the organization and longevity of a storm.

The Lifecycle of thunderstorm on cruise ship

thunderstorm on cruise ship typically go through three stages:

• The Developing Stage: Characterized by updrafts that fuel the storm, it’s the period when cumulus clouds form and grow.
• The Mature Stage: The most dangerous phase, featuring both updrafts and downdrafts, producing heavy rain, lightning, hail, and sometimes tornadoes.
• The Dissipating Stage: Marked by weakening updrafts, the storm begins to lose its energy and eventually dissipates.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning Update: Advanced Tracking and Alerts

Technology has become a pivotal tool in tracking severe thunderstorms. Doppler radar systems can detect the motion of rain droplets in a storm, which provides information on the intensity and potential rotation of storms. Satellite technology also plays a crucial role in observing storm developments from space, especially in remote areas.

Long-Term Weather Outlooks: Predicting Severe Weather Patterns and thunderstorm on cruise ship

Seasonal weather outlooks can provide a glimpse into the potential for severe weather weeks and even months in advance. These outlooks, based on global weather patterns like El Niño or La Niña, help communities and industries prepare for what might be an active severe weather season.

Remember during a thunderstorm on cruise ship, safety starts with awareness. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and stay safe.

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Thunderstorms are a natural phenomenon that can range from mildly inconvenient to downright dangerous. When the skies darken and the air feels charged, it’s crucial to know how to react to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Severe Thunderstorm Watch: An In-Depth Guide When the skies darken and the winds pick up, a sense of anticipation fills the air. These are often the precursors to a severe thunderstorm, which can be both awe-inspiring and dangerous. The National Weather Service issues a Severe Thunderstorm Watch when conditions are

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Understanding the Alert

Weather phenomena can range from mild to severe, with thunderstorms being among the most unpredictable and potentially dangerous events. A severe thunderstorm warning is issued by meteorological agencies to alert the public of imminent weather dangers. This blog post aims to demystify what a severe thunderstorm warning is and what

Storms and lightning: the power of the forces of nature

When the sky darkens and heavy clouds roll in, a violent storm is on the horizon. These dramatic weather phenomena, with lightning, thunder and storms, fascinate and frighten people at the same time. But how does a storm actually develop? And why is it so difficult for meteorologists to reliably

What is an Isolated Thunderstorm?

Understanding the Phenomenon of Solo Storms Thunderstorms are fascinating meteorological events, often associated with heavy rainfall, lightning, and loud thunder. While we frequently hear about large storm systems affecting vast areas, isolated thunderstorms are a bit different, focusing their intensity on a much smaller region. This blog explores the nature,

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