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The
twin island state of Saint Kitts and Nevis is susceptible to
hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, volcanic eruptions, wind, and
storm surge coastal erosion.
The period 1995 to 1999 has been particularly challenging with
Hurricanes Luis and Marilyn in 1995, Hurricane Georges in 1998,
severe flash flood in 1998 and Hurricanes Jose and Lenny in
1999.
These events have caused serious social and economic disruption.
The National Disaster Mitigation Council was established in
1998/1999 and consists of representatives from the public and
private sectors as well as non-governmental and church organisations.
The council is chaired by the Hon. Deputy Prime Minister, who
reports directly to the Cabinet. The National Emergency Management
Agency's Office was established in 1995. A Disaster Management
Act (#5/1998) provides the legal framework for emergency management.
The current National Disaster Plan was revised in 1999 and provides
for the engagement of both public and private, governmental
and non-governmental organisations. Community mobilisation is
organised through district committees. The development of contingency
plans at the community level has been ongoing for several years.
In response to the serious damage from Hurricane Georges, a
Post Georges Disaster Mitigation Project was undertaken in 2000/2001.
Funded by USAID and in part implemented by the OAS Unit for
Sustainable Development and Environment, this project resulted
in the production of a Natural Hazard Mitigation Policy and
Plan, several hazard maps and a shelter manual.
The existing building code addresses seismic risk and was revised
in 2000. Enforcement of this code, however, remains a challenge,
largely due to a limited number of inspectors.
Public service announcements and media campaigns are used to
heighten public awareness on disaster related issues and a number
of public education initiatives are taking place. Each year,
a major campaign involving street banners, billboards, flyers,
announcements and interactive discussions aims at preparing
the residents of both islands for the hurricane season.
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