Following updated predictions for above normal activity for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) says it remains ready to respond.
In a release, CDEMA notes the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on August 11 revised its forecast from near normal to “above normal” activity.
The NOAA says its outlook now includes a 70% chance of 14-21 named storms, of which 6-11 could become hurricanes, and 2-5 could become major hurricanes.
CDEMA explains that a key component during this period is an effective emergency telecommunication system, which is monitored daily. Communication is maintained with the National Disaster Offices within the 19 Participating States, as required, to ensure readiness in the event of a hazard impact.
Deputy Executive Director, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig says the agency’s Regional Response Mechanism (RRM), which is made up of several “Response Teams”, and drawn from individuals across the Caribbean region, are trained and placed on standby for potential deployment.
The senior CDEMA official notes that a key feature of the response mechanism this year is a database of trained drone pilots who will be working closely with the Regional Search and Rescue Team to support Damage Assessment in the event any of the Participating States are impacted.
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