US Cuts Threaten Hurricane Preparedness in Antigua & Barbuda

Key disaster readiness and forecasting programmes in Antigua and Barbuda are taking a hit due to major funding cuts from United States partners, such as USAID and NOAA.

NODS’ Preparedness and Response Manager, Anderson Tuitt, says critical training has been affected, which could end up straining the national budget.

Meanwhile, Director of Antigua & Barbuda Meteorological Services, Dale Destin, reveals projects like early flood and tsunami warnings were shelved, because of the funding cuts.

He also says there’s also growing concern over the future of vital tools, like satellite imagery and hurricane hunter missions.