Barbuda has taken a significant step toward achieving internationally recognised Tsunami Ready status after successfully completing a three-day disaster preparedness exercise focused on public education and emergency response.
The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) coordinated the exercise, which ran from May 26 to 28 and brought together students, teachers, disaster management personnel, community leaders, and international experts.
The initiative forms part of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission's Tsunami Ready Recognition Programme, which encourages communities to strengthen their capacity to prepare for and respond to tsunami threats through public awareness campaigns, warning systems, evacuation planning, and regular drills.
Activities began with educational sessions at Holy Trinity Primary School and Sir McChesney George Secondary School, where students and staff received instruction on tsunami hazards, safety procedures, and evacuation planning. Students also contributed ideas for educational and social media content aimed at promoting tsunami awareness locally and internationally.
The programme culminated on May 28 with a full community evacuation exercise involving both schools. Participants practiced moving from tsunami hazard zones to designated safe areas while officials assessed evacuation routes, communication systems, and emergency coordination procedures.
Officials said the exercise yielded valuable feedback on the island's readiness and identified areas where preparedness efforts can be further strengthened.
NODS Director Sherrod James emphasised that community participation remains critical to effective disaster management. He noted that involving young people in preparedness activities helps build a culture of resilience and ensures future generations understand how to respond during emergencies.
The exercise drew support from several local and international experts, including representatives from the International Tsunami Information Center Caribbean Office, risk communication specialists, and technical personnel working alongside local disaster management officials. Among those participating were Barbuda Council Chairman John Mussington, NODS GIS Specialist Alvah Guishard, and Project Officer Daryl George.
NODS extended thanks to the administrators, teachers, and students of both schools, as well as the Ministry of Education, for their support and active involvement. The agency said the successful exercise reflects Barbuda's ongoing commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness and ensuring the community remains ready to respond to natural hazards.
