Release: Department of Disaster Management and the National Disaster Management Committee

The Valley, Anguilla - Sunday, 30th of November officially marks the end of the 2008 Atlantic Hurricane Season. It has been an active one highlighted by the threat of Ike 2 September and the impact of Hurricane Omar 16/17 October.

Governor Andrew George commented "I would like to thank all Government officials and workers, and members of the general public, who have been involved in recovery efforts after Hurricane Omar. The spirit of goodwill and cooperation displayed has been a real tribute to the community spirit which continues to exist in Anguilla."

Chief Minister the Hon. Osbourne Fleming expressed thanks to God for sparing the island from any major damage from Hurricanes this year while at the same time recognizing the passage of Omar in October which resulted in some damage to vegetation and the island’s coastline but no loss of life. He cautioned persons to continue to be vigilant beyond the hurricane season as natural disasters could strike at any time. Mr. Fleming has set aside December 6th and 7th as special days when churches across the island can offer up prayers.

Although Hurricanes have been known to form beyond November, forecasters are not expecting any more to develop this year.

Last year you will remember the Caribbean, and Anguilla, were shaken by an earthquake the last day of the season reminding us that we face other hazards. This season was also not limited to tropical storms. A suspected Tornado caused noticeable damage in Rendezvous Bay and Blowing Point on 2 September then 16 September saw an act of sabotage at the local bulk fuel storage facilities. There were also three charter/ferry incidents, two of which resulted in serious injuries. One was a result of large ground seas and the other a collision at night. Thankfully, all have recovered and lessons were learned.

The varied emergency/disaster incidents in 2008 gave members of the National Disaster Management Committee, National Emergency Operations Centre and the Damage Assessment, Debris Removal, Shelter Management and Utilities Teams the opportunity to apply the training and exercising they have faithfully completed in the past year.

Mrs. Klute, Director of Disaster Management stated: “I believe the rapid response to and recovery from the Blowing Point Tornado and Hurricane Omar events highlighted the commitment of the public, volunteers and government staff to prepare for and reduce the impacts of disasters in Anguilla. For this we are grateful.”

There is still a great need for committed volunteers to support the Disaster Management Programme in areas such as Damage Assessment, Relief Management and Shelter Management. Anyone wishing to be trained and become involved should contact the Department of Disaster Management at 264-497-2926.

The Department of Disaster Management and the National Disaster Management Committee thank you and wish you all a safe and happy holiday season.