DOMINICA RED CROSS SOCIETY URGES COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS AS THE 2026 ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON BEGINS

Today marks the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season. The Dominica Red Cross Society is calling on all citizens, residents, and communities across the nature island to prioritize early preparation and safety.

With the memory of past devastating storms still a powerful reminder, the Dominica Red Cross emphasizes that proactive planning is our strongest defense against the unpredictability of tropical storms and hurricanes. The season runs from June 1st through November 30th, and forecasters predict an active period, making immediate action essential for every household.

The Dominica Red Cross Society has already begun optimizing its disaster response mechanisms, reinforcing community disaster response teams, and restocking essential relief supplies across our network of local branches. However, institutional readiness is only half of the equation. True resilience relies heavily on individual and family preparedness.

To ensure your home and loved ones are secure, the Dominica Red Cross recommends taking the following vital steps starting this week:

• Develop a Family Emergency Plan: Discuss where your family will meet if separated

and establish clear evacuation routes if your home is located in a flood-prone or landslide area.

• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Gather at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food,

water (one gallon per person per day), flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, essential

medications, and copies of important personal documents stored in waterproof bags.

• Access Regional Risk Tools: Visit https://caribbean-risks.org/en/ to access interactive

maps, hazard information, and localized resources designed to help you understand specific vulnerabilities in your area. Secure Your Property: Trim overhanging tree branches near your roof, clear drains around your yard, and ensure you have functional storm shutters or materials to secure windows and doors.

• Stay Informed: Monitor official updates from the Dominica Meteorological Service and local authorities. Avoid spreading unverified information on social media.

The Dominica Red Cross Society remains deeply committed to supporting the people of Dominica before, during, and after any potential weather systems. Our volunteers are active in communities islandwide, providing educational resources and guidance to help vulnerable families build safer, more resilient environments.

Do not wait for a storm warning to begin getting ready. Start your preparations today to protect your family, your neighbours, and our beautiful country. For additional guidance and to check regional risk levels, remember to use the online platform at https://caribbean-risks.org/en/.

For more information on disaster preparedness tips or to find out how you can volunteer with your local chapter, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Dominica Red Cross Society headquarters in Roseau.