Enhanced preparedness for extreme weather across the Caribbean: A joint work plan

This workplan sets out a framework for making more effective use of resources based on extreme weather forecasts in the Caribbean, and the financial support and technical assistance required to strengthen the four key components of such a framework (forecasting and decision-making; timing and planning early actions; financing; and delivery). It builds on a scoping study undertaken on behalf of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, which included key stakeholder consultations, a multi-stakeholder workshop to determine interest and gaps in current mechanisms to address disaster risks, and a roundtable discussion with regional development partners.

The key messages of the paper are:

• This paper sets out a framework and joint work plan for development partners to enhance disaster preparedness and reduce the humanitarian and economic impacts of extreme weather in the Caribbean.
• The framework can help governments and development partners to more effectively manage ‘residual risks’ (those not addressed by longer-term risk reduction measures) through regional cooperation.
• The framework has four components: forecasting impacts; well-planned and coordinated early actions; reliable finance; and delivery mechanisms. Each component needs strengthening through existing and new initiatives.
• Recommendations include setting up a regional reserve fund to fill gaps in preparedness and a regional shock-responsive social protection mechanism.
• For any regional mechanism, a standardised process needs to be developed to identify thresholds of likely impact that trigger pre-agreed actions and release of funds.