Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 26-June 1, following the release of the official forecast for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season. This week will highlight USAID’s work helping disaster-prone countries in Latin America and the Caribbean prepare for and recover from hurricanes.
Hurricane Stan destroyed this building and many others in Central America and Mexico during the 2005 hurricane season. Photo credit: USAID
The National Hurricane Center announced on May 23 that 2013 will be a very active year, with between seven to 11 storm systems expected to develop into hurricanes.
USAID—through its Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance—is prepared to meet the demands of a busy hurricane season. It has been working year-round with countries in Latin America and the Caribbean to ensure emergency and evacuation plans are in place.
All this week, USAID’s Impact blog will showcase how USAID and its partners have been helping to prepare hurricane-prone countries and communities for disasters, including:
- Testing Transitional Shelters at the ‘Wall of Wind’
Working with Florida International University in Miami, USAID tests the strength and design of transitional shelters offered to people who have lost their homes in the wake of disasters.
- Training on the Flash Flood Guidance System
USAID works closely with meteorological experts in hurricane-prone countries, training them how to use this scientific system to help communities escape the most fatal side effect of hurricanes.
- Engaging Youth Across the Caribbean Through Rap Music and Theater
USAID and its partners use rap music and theater to transform at-risk youth in the Caribbean into disaster response leaders.
- Educating People On Effective Donations During A Hurricane
When disasters strike, Americans are among the first to offer help to people in need. USAID educates the public on why monetary donations to credible relief organizations are the most efficient and effective way to help.
