Collective Preparation promoted during National Update to start Hurricane Season

Danae Dennie

Staff Writer

#TurksandCaicos, June 18, 2024 – “While we cannot control the forces of nature, we can control how we prepare and respond. It is essential that each one of us takes personal responsibility for our preparedness. I urge every citizen to stay informed, create emergency plans, and support community efforts,” said Jamell Robinson, Turks and Caicos Deputy Premier.

Robinson, who heads up the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, with the added responsibility for Disaster Management at Press Briefing on June 7, shared the Government’s initiatives for ‘Proactive Resilience’ for the 2024 Hurricane Season.

He was speaking at The Turks and Caicos Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) 2024 Hurricane Season Press Briefing and Breakfast on Thursday, June 6, 2024, held at the Governor’s Office in Providenciales.

TCIG plans to strengthen infrastructure by upgrading drainage systems and ensuring road networks remain operational during emergencies.

It was highlighted that The Estate Management Department in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and their Maintenance Division and the Department of Planning have created strategic plans for effective safeguarding and minimizing of damage.

A meeting will be held to determine the best options to offer support across all government agencies.

TCI’s Disaster Management teams have been trained and equipped to respond effectively and efficiently to emergencies, as well he assured when speaking to media at the special breakfast.

Additionally, TCIG has created communication channels and coordination mechanisms with local, regional, and international agencies to ensure an efficient response and the country’s meteorologist is actively engaged with stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate sharing of reports.

Deputy Premier Robinson said that there are plans on the drawing board to integrate long-term sustainable planning into the PNP Administration’s development strategies. This would involve adopting practices that promote resilience, preserving natural buffers, and advancing climate adaptation measures.