The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) emphasized the critical importance of readiness as the region braces for tropical cyclones and severe weather over the next six months.
Elizabeth Riley, Executive Director of CDEMA, underscored the necessity for governments and residents to be proactive in their preparations.
Speaking at a media conference on Tuesday, Riley stressed that readiness is a fundamental step towards swift recovery in the event of hurricanes, floods, or other natural calamities.
Forecasting challenges ahead
With projections indicating a potentially active 2024 hurricane season, Riley cautioned that even amidst a forecast of 17 to 25 named storms, it only takes one significant event to wreak havoc on a country.
She highlighted the current environmental conditions as conducive to storm development and intensification, noting record-warm sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Atlantic.
Preparedness measures
CDEMA has taken concrete steps to bolster its response capabilities. Thirty-one individuals, trained under the CARICOM Disaster Relief Unit, stand ready to provide humanitarian aid during crises.
Moreover, a network of 60 personnel across the region has been equipped to conduct search and rescue operations.
Technological advancements
In anticipation of communication challenges during disasters, CARICOM’s Emergency Telecommunications Team has been reinforced with 14 operators proficient in utilizing CDEMA’s specialized communication deployment kits.
Additionally, CDEMA has augmented its resources with nine Starlink satellite internet terminals, two Hornet VSAP terminals, six Yeti Goal Zero solar generators, and new GPS handheld devices, all poised for rapid deployment where needed.
Strategic partnerships
Further enhancing its logistical capabilities, CDEMA has forged a partnership with King Ocean Services shipping company to facilitate the swift transport of relief supplies across the region.
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