Defending against hurricanes in the Caribbean

In September 1996, the eastern Caribbean suffered the full force of hurricanes Luis and Marilyn. The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States asked FAO to send a team to assess the damage and devise projects for rehabilitation in the agricultural and fisheries sectors. The team travelled extensively in the region and drew up a comprehensive programme.

Every year this region is hit by hurricanes, tropical storms and depressions. As a result, in addition to helping the region meet immediate needs, FAO agreed to fund a project to strengthen national and regional prevention and preparedness through technical assistance, equipment and training. The aim is to develop hurricane-resistant farming methods, crops and forestry techniques and to reduce the impact of hurricanes on the fishing industry.