Supply chain management is a complicated process even under the best of conditions. When a tropical storm occurs, the process is made even more complex as the extreme weather can not only wreak havoc on homes and buildings; but, the subsequent high winds and flooding, can disrupt and delay freight transportation, potentially causing supply chain delays and failures. As tropical storm season begins, it is important to plan ahead for adverse weather events to minimize potential repercussions.

1. Know How to Prioritize Your Freight: The severe weather associated with tropical storms can shut down ports and ground flights. When operations do begin, capacity may be reduced, and extensive backlogs are possible. By understanding which freight is most important to maintaining business continuity, you can help prevent further disruptions downstream.
2. Plan for Inventory Disruptions: During the peak of tropical storm season, it can be wise to plan for additional inventory to be on hand in case your supply chain is disrupted due to significant port and airport closures and delays.  
3. Keep an Eye on the Sky: Taking a proactive approach to monitoring the weather during tropical storm season is vital. It allows you to stay well-informed of impending severe weather that might impact shipment delivery. While the forecast may change at a moment’s notice, it is essential you are aware of the weather forecast and any precautionary measures taken locally, such as port and airport closures and shelter-in-place orders.
4. Utilize Technology to Increase Supply Chain Visibility: In the event of severe weather, maintaining supply chain visibility and real-time access to information about paused and canceled shipments is vital. By maintaining supply chain visibility, you can more readily identify potential problems and areas of concern, allowing informed decisions on things such as expediting time-sensitive cargo to be made early on minimizing disruptions.
5. Maintain a Line of Communication: When severe weather occurs, it is important to maintain a clear line of communication with your service providers. This means ensuring that your provider knows which cargo is of the highest priority and giving as much notice as possible about a needed shipment as canceled flights and closed ports can delay shipments and reduce capacity.

With the start of tropical storm season having arrived, it is important to be prepared for whatever disruptions severe weather might bring. Whether it is developing a contingency plan long before extreme weather conditions occur or rerouting cargo and utilizing air cargo options when severe weather occurs, JAS can help keep your supply chain running smoothly. To make sure you are ready for tropical storm season, contact your local JAS office.

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