In a significant move to enhance national disaster preparedness, Antigua and Barbuda’s National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) has entered into a strategic collaboration with the United States’ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This partnership focuses specifically on strengthening the island nation’s capacity to address tsunami threats through advanced warning systems and comprehensive response protocols.
The collaboration centers on NOAA’s International Tsunami Information Center (ITIC), which provides specialized support to Caribbean nations in developing tsunami warning infrastructure, conducting training programs, and disseminating critical safety information. The initiative commenced with an intensive training session on January 12th, where NODS representatives and key stakeholders received vital instruction on products and services offered by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC). Participants gained expertise in Tsunami Standard Operating Procedures and explored innovative tools designed to improve emergency preparedness.
A cornerstone of this initiative is the Tsunami Ready Launch and Training Mission, scheduled for January 12-16, 2026, with particular emphasis on Barbuda. This five-day mission will assemble local, regional, and international experts to conduct comprehensive training programs and knowledge-sharing sessions, ensuring community personnel are fully equipped to respond effectively to tsunami emergencies.
This project forms part of the broader regional program ‘Capacity Development to Build Tsunami-Resilient Communities through Tsunami Readiness in the Caribbean and Adjacent Regions.’ Coordinated by NOAA’s ITIC in partnership with UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), the initiative aims to empower coastal communities with essential knowledge and resources to enhance their resilience against tsunami threats.
With a project budget of approximately $93,000 managed by the University of Colorado Consortium for Atmospheric Research (UCAR), the funding will cover technical services, training materials, warning signage, and other critical components. Antigua and Barbuda will play a pivotal role in identifying community needs, facilitating National and Local Tsunami Ready committees, and providing relevant data, while the ITIC Caribbean Office will oversee coordination and technical implementation.
This tsunami readiness project aligns with the UN’s Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative and demonstrates Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and sustainable development through enhanced disaster risk reduction systems. NODS has reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening disaster response capabilities through this collaborative effort with NOAA and UNESCO.