Geography Unit 1, World at Risk Case Study 4 - Caribbean 'savage storms', 2004

In 2004 the Caribbean was hit by a series of tropical storms including Hurricanes Charley, Fran, Ivan and Jeanne. Four responses to these disasters are described below. Cuba~Civil defence is part of national security~Cuba has a world-class meteorological institute which produces computer models and reaches people through all types of media.~Within 48 hours of the storm arriving, the vulnerable can be contacted and escape routes planned.~Within 12 hours people can be evacuated to shelters using public transport.~The population is educated about hurricane dangers.~Cuba has well-organised systems at national, regional and governmental levels.~During Hurricanes Charley and Ivan, only four people died. Jamaica~Since Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, preparedness has paid off. In each parish, there are community disaster-response officers and plans.~Maps have been drawn up showing resources and the homes of the most vulnerable people.~There are trained Red Cross emergency helpers, well-equipped wardens and designated shelters.~'Gilbert anniversary' practice drills and earthquake awareness events are held. However, this is a voluntary system so requires persuasion.~14 people were killed in Hurricane Ivan. Haiti~Haiti suffers problems with floods and landslides~Political instability including a coup in 2004 has led to a lack of local government organisation.~Extreme poverty has led to a lack of resources (e.g. at the national meteorological centre.~The poor level of education makes it difficult to develop effective communications.~Up to 3 000 people were killed in Hurricane Jeanne. Dominican Republic~The Dominican republic is trying hard to respond to weather hazards.~It has delivered maps and organised visits from the Red Cross outreach workers to communities.~It has introduced a new civil defence system based on churches.~As the main threat is hurricanes, defences focus on wind hazards. But the main problem in Hurricane Jeanne was flooding (100 mm rain in 24 hours).~The country lacks short-wave radios and key equipment.~20 people drowned during Hurricane Jeanne.

Caribbean 'savage storms', 2004