Antigua and Barbuda will serve as the focal point for the annual Caribe Wave Tsunami Exercise on March 19th, a comprehensive disaster preparedness initiative orchestrated by the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS). This large-scale simulation aims to rigorously evaluate tsunami response protocols across the island nation.
The multinational exercise operates under the auspices of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Coordination Group for Tsunami and Other Coastal Hazards Warning System, with operational coordination managed by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA). This collaborative framework underscores the regional commitment to enhancing coastal community resilience.
Residents should anticipate receiving simulated tsunami alerts through multiple channels. The Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) App, previously promoted by NODS for smartphone installation, will broadcast test messages clearly marked with “EXERCISE!!” identifiers at both commencement and conclusion. Additionally, radio interrupters installed at select stations and community sirens will activate as part of the coordinated drill.
Educational institutions and businesses throughout the island will participate by conducting organized evacuation procedures. Emergency services including police units, emergency medical services, and the Red Cross will deploy personnel to support exercise operations and simulate real-response scenarios. Authorities emphasize this constitutes solely a training exercise rather than an actual emergency situation.
Government officials urge widespread dissemination of this information to prevent public confusion or alarm during the preparedness activities, highlighting the critical importance of community awareness in effective disaster response training.