Basseterre, Saint Kitts, May 30, 2026 (SKNIS): As the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season approaches, Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Minister of National Security, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, convened a critical disaster preparedness meeting on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Conference Room to assess the Federation’s readiness and response capabilities in the event of a natural disaster.
The proactive meeting brought together key stakeholders and members of the National Disaster Committee (NDC) to review preparedness measures, identify areas requiring attention, and strengthen coordination among agencies responsible for disaster management and emergency response.
Addressing participants, Prime Minister Dr. Drew underscored the importance of preparedness and collective responsibility.
“When a disaster hits, it affects everyone, and so we need to be ready,” said Prime Minister Drew. “We should be ready to respond swiftly, protect lives and property, and ensure that our communities can recover as quickly as possible. Preparedness is not the responsibility of one agency alone; it requires the commitment and cooperation of all of us.”
During the meeting, updates were presented by the Federation’s ten disaster preparedness subcommittees, providing detailed reports on their respective areas of responsibility and outlining measures already undertaken in advance of the hurricane season.
Participants also received presentations from the Deputy National Disaster Coordinator at NEMA, Julian Bradshaw, and Meteorological Officer, Denel Dixon. Dixon provided an overview of the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season outlook and highlighted the forecasts and conditions expected to influence weather patterns throughout the season.
Mr. Bradshaw thanked attendees for making time to participate in the important meeting despite their demanding schedules.
“As we face the upcoming months, preparedness is vital, and we will need to come together to ensure that we leave no stone unturned,” Mr. Bradshaw said. “I understand that everyone has busy schedules, but your presence here today demonstrates the commitment required to safeguard our nation and its people.”
The meeting forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen national resilience and ensure that all agencies remain prepared to respond effectively to any threat posed by tropical storms, hurricanes, or other hazards during the 2026 season.
Prime Minister Drew reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis through careful planning, collaboration, and continuous preparedness efforts.
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