Dominica increases resilient structure for Hurricanes: PM Roosevelt Skerrit

Roseau, Dominica: Prime Minister Dr Roosevelt Skerrit says that the government of Dominica has increased shelter capacity and resilient structures as the preparedness for the Atlantic Hurricane Season. He also advised the general public to be cautious as the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season started on June 1. 

Speaking during his press conference, PM Skerrit reiterated his commitment and said that the government has worked for the welfare of the citizens of Dominica. They have adopted a strategic approach to stand against Hurricanes by increasing shelter capacity, strengthening response mechanisms at the community level by introducing new building codes to ensure safer, more resilient structures, and raising awareness of disaster risk and response among the population.

He reminded the citizens and residents to adopt efficient safety measures and hurricane preparedness for the protection of their families and properties. 

Prime Minister Skerrit said the countries in the Eastern Caribbean should adopt a vigilant approach toward the hurricane season. He said that the season will run from June 1 to November 30. 

While recognizing the hurricane season as a serious issue for the small island nation, he condemns experts for predicting it as near normal. The prime minister asserted that why experts are calling it near normal because they are also hurricane experts and also aware of the fact that one devastating event could shuttle livelihoods resulting in severe turmoil in the lives of the people. 

Emphasizing early preparedness, PM Roosevelt Skerrit said that the safety measures will efficiently enhance the ability of the people to fight against the impact of the Hurricane. He said that experts predicted 12 to 17 storms for this year’s season and also gave them names. The predictions have also indicated the possibility of the arrival of strong one to four hurricanes.

He also outlined that government departments will adopt a vigilant approach to inform the general public about the updates on the Hurricane Season. These departments will work throughout the season to ensure the safety of the country and its citizens. The prime minister said that the citizens will be encouraged by the government and work for the protection of their families. 

The national emergency planning organization has also been activated with the support of the government, which is ready to navigate hurricane season. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit also hoped for the best and asked citizens to remain cautious by adopting efficient safety measures. 

Earlier, the government of Dominica also outlined ten tips for Hurricane Preparedness 2023.