Bermuda Participates In ‘Caribe Wave 24′
“In light of our participation in Caribe Wave 24, it’s imperative to recognise the dual importance of readiness and effective communication in disaster risk management,” said the Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks.
The Government spokesperson said, “The Disaster Risk Reduction & Mitigation Team [DRRMT] of the Ministry of National Security, in collaboration with the Bermuda Weather Service [BWS] and the Maritime Operations Centre [MOC], participated in Carib Wave 24, the 13th annual regional tsunami exercise, on 21 March 2024.
“This initiative, aimed at enhancing tsunami preparedness, underscores the importance of readiness and communication among Bermuda’s agencies, even though the likelihood of a tsunami impacting Bermuda remains minimal.
“Caribe Wave 24 is a virtual communications exercise designed to test the effectiveness of agency communications in the event of a tsunami. The BWS serves as Bermuda’s designated Tsunami Focal Point, with the MOC acting as the backup focal point should BWS communications be compromised.
“DRRMT coordinates these efforts for the Emergency Measures Organisation [EMO], ensuring a comprehensive approach to disaster, risk reduction and mitigation.
“While Bermuda’s geographical location makes the probability of experiencing a tsunami low, the global history of tsunamis teaches the devastating impact such an event can have on life and livelihoods.
‘It is with this awareness and commitment to public safety that Bermuda participates in Caribe Wave 24, aligning with the Intergovernmental Coordination Group for Tsunamis and Other Coastal Hazards in the Caribbean and Adjacent Regions [ICG CARIBE-EWS] of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission.”
Minister Weeks added, “While Bermuda’s geographic location minimises our risk of tsunamis, our focus on public safety and preparedness is clear. This exercise tests our communication protocols and solidifies our resilience and readiness to protect our island.
“Caribe Wave 24 as an important step towards strengthening our national preparedness for tsunamis and other potential disasters.”
The Government spokesperson said, “The annual Caribe Wave exercise, coordinated alongside the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [NOAA] and various regional emergency management stakeholders, provides a platform for countries within the Caribbean and adjacent regions to simulate tsunami scenarios.
“This exercise is important for testing the communications between the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center [PTWC], Tsunami Warning Focal Points [TWFPs], and National Tsunami Warning Centers [NTWCs], ensuring preparedness and swift response capabilities are maintained at the highest standards.
“For more information on tsunami preparedness and the Caribe Wave exercise, please visit https://www.weather.gov/itic-car/caribewave.”
The Internet and cellphone networks are down. What is your backup plan for communications? Do you have enough handheld short-wave radios?
“What is your backup plan for communications?”
It has been the same for generations, gossip!