Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre is urging Saint Lucians not to become complacent as the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins, stressing that individual preparedness and community responsibility remain critical even though the island has avoided major storms in recent years.
At Monday’s pre-Cabinet briefing, Pierre shared his main message for citizens as the region enters one of its most vulnerable periods of the year.
The Prime Minister said people should start preparing at home and take simple steps now, rather than waiting until a storm is on the way.
“My first one, begin to harvest water. That’s my first one,” Pierre said. Saint Lucia has been grappling with a longstanding water crisis.
He also encouraged households to develop emergency plans and closely follow official guidance from the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO).
“Take all necessary precautions, listen to the advice of NEMO, have your own family hurricane plan,” he said.
Pierre pointed out some simple yet important steps people can take to reduce damage during storms. These include trimming branches that hang over houses, securing roofing materials like galvanised sheets, and strengthening weak spots around the home.
“These are simplistic, but they are things that we can do,” he noted.
The Prime Minister also warned people not to ignore hurricane warnings or think that preparing for the season is overreacting.
“Do not take this thing as a rumour-mongering thing. Don’t take it as if it is a joke. It’s serious stuff,” Pierre said.
He reiterated that citizens should rely only on official information and stay mindful of their own safety and the well-being of those around them.
“Only listen to advice from NEMO and look out for yourself and look out for your neighbour,” he said.
Pierre concluded by reminding Saint Lucians that hurricanes can affect entire communities regardless of personal circumstances.
“Make sure you have your own hurricane plan, because we never know. And again, the situation where everyone will suffer if there’s a hurricane.”
The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially runs from June 1 to November 30 each year.
