Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday has called on Vincentians to take immediate steps to prepare for the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season, warning that the country faces a combination of climate, economic and disaster-related challenges.
Speaking in a national address on Monday, the Prime Minister said St. Vincent and the Grenadines enters the season facing several uncertainties, including ongoing drought conditions, climate change impacts and limited resources for disaster recovery.
Dr. Friday noted that while some areas have experienced recent rainfall, parts of the country continue to endure dry conditions linked to a prolonged drought.
According to the Prime Minister, meteorological data indicates that annual rainfall levels in St. Vincent and the Grenadines have been declining over recent years, with 2025 recording the lowest annual rainfall on record.
He said the trend reflects wider projections for the Caribbean, where climate experts anticipate more frequent and prolonged dry spells in the future.
While forecasts suggest the 2026 hurricane season may be slightly below average in terms of the number of storms, Dr. Friday cautioned that fewer storms do not necessarily mean reduced risk.
He cited forecasts from Colorado State University and the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which project between eight and 14 named storms this season, including several hurricanes and potentially major hurricanes.
The Prime Minister stressed that St. Vincent and the Grenadines cannot afford complacency, particularly after experiencing the devastating impacts of Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
He said disaster preparedness must remain a national priority and urged residents to begin reviewing emergency plans, securing their homes and gathering essential supplies.
Among the key recommendations outlined were staying informed through official channels such as the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) and the Meteorological Office, developing household emergency plans, stocking food, water and medication supplies, and identifying safe shelter options if evacuation becomes necessary.
Dr. Friday also encouraged citizens to look out for vulnerable members of their communities, including the elderly, children and persons with disabilities, particularly during emergencies.
The Prime Minister further urged residents to report hazards and storm-related damage promptly to NEMO to assist authorities in coordinating response efforts.
He said disaster management remains a shared responsibility between government, communities and individuals.
“We cannot take the chance, and we must do what we can. Please act now,” the Prime Minister said, urging Vincentians to use lessons learned from Hurricanes Thomas, Elsa and Beryl to strengthen preparedness for the months ahead.