Dominica has launched its fifth National Climate Outlook Forum at the Prevost Cinemall, gathering cross-sector stakeholders to confront escalating climate challenges under the theme “Safeguarding Health and Lives against Dust and Climate Impacts.” The initiative represents a coordinated effort to bolster national resilience through scientific forecasting and strategic planning.
Central to the discussions are the health implications of Saharan dust incursions and atmospheric pollutants, with experts emphasizing the urgent need for mitigation strategies. The forum features detailed analyses of the anticipated 2025 wet and hurricane season, providing critical data for emergency preparedness. Additionally, participants will examine projections for the 2025-2026 dry season to inform resource allocation and long-term planning.
The event serves as a collaborative platform for sharing best practices and developing practical solutions to reduce climate-related health vulnerabilities. Through structured presentations and dialogues, attendees aim to create actionable frameworks that address the interconnected challenges of air quality, extreme weather, and public health.
Notable participants included Mrs. Vernie Marcellin Honoroe from Dominica Meteorological Services, who welcomed delegates, and Mr. Adrian Thomas, Chief of Applied Meteorology at the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology. Key government representatives included Mr. Samuel Carrette, National Resilience Coordinator, Hon. Kent Edwards, Parliamentary Secretary for Health, and Permanent Secretary Jo-Anne Commodore from the Ministry of National Security, underscoring the multidisciplinary approach to climate resilience.