Disaster Management Council to review hurricane readiness today

Having now entered the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season, the National Disaster Management Council will be meeting today (June 18) to discuss territorial hurricane readiness.

The Council — an inter-agency body jointly chaired by the Governor and the Premier — will also consider strategic steps to finalise seasonal preparedness for the territory when it meets virtually today.

A media release from the Council said the meeting will see the council receiving reports from governmental heads such as Financial and Permanent Secretaries as well as the Director of Communications.

According to the release, Governor John Rankin said he has been “impressed” with the preparedness activities he has seen so far. This he said includes recent site visits to local emergency shelters.

“The NDMC pulls together experts from the Department of Disaster Management, the security and protection forces, the health sector, utility service providers, and our vital social care agencies and non-governmental partners, all guided by Permanent Secretaries who are responsible for their elements of the Territory’s Disaster Management Plan. The efforts being made through this structure ensure that all corners of the Territory are working hand-in-glove to Be Ready this hurricane season,” Governor Rankin said.

His co-chair Premier Andrew Fahie said the BVI has worked hard to get to where it is now, so residents and leaders must be proactive to continue the territory’s success.

“[This] is why we are meeting now and not waiting for a storm to be upon us to identify any gaps that may exist in our overall readiness,” Premier Fahie stated.

“My government stands ready to do what is needed to ensure that we are able to withstand any major impacts from events that may impact the Territory this year, whether it be flooding, strong winds, landslides or storm surge that comes with the devastating hurricane that have impacted our islands recently,” he added.