Anguilla has once again been officially recognised as a UNESCO-IOC Tsunami Ready Community, reaffirming its position as a regional leader in disaster preparedness.
The designation was celebrated at a ceremony at the Teachers’ Resource Centre on 23 October, marking a continued commitment to coastal safety, public awareness and coordinated emergency response.
Certificates were presented to key agencies, including the Department of Disaster Management, in recognition of their roles in maintaining strong early warning systems and emergency protocols.
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Acting department director Trevor Queeley praised the team behind the achievement and Deputy Governor Perin Bradley reaffirmed the government’s commitment to national resilience.
“With innovative alert systems and strong community engagement, Anguilla remains a regional leader in tsunami readiness,” a press release from the Department of Disaster Management said.
The UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) promotes the Tsunami Ready Recognition Programme (TRRP) as an international initiative to build community resilience.
The programme, launched in Anguilla in March 2024, requires communities to achieve a set of indicators covering risk assessment, preparedness and response.
Through collaboration among community partners, Anguilla has since demonstrated commitment to enhancing disaster preparedness and ensuring the safety of its residents.
“The TRRP helps communities like ours build strong early warning systems, public education initiatives, and coordinated emergency plans,” the press release said.
In February, the Department of Disaster Management invited residents, businesses and stakeholders to provide their feedback on a draft tsunami map of Anguilla created as part of the TRRP.
The map highlights critical evacuation zones and designated assembly points to help residents respond effectively in the event of a tsunami.
More information on the steps Anguilla took to become tsunami ready can be seen below:
