By: Spokesman Newsroom
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Wednesday 17th June 2026) — National Disaster Coordinator Livingston Pemberton says preparedness must extend beyond hurricanes and encompass all hazards that can affect the Federation. “The Caribbean region as we know it exists in a multi-hazard risk environment and therefore preparedness must be an all-year-round activity,” Pemberton commented during a press conference hosted by NEMA on Friday 12th June 2026. While noting that June to November is traditionally associated with hurricanes, he said the Federation is simultaneously confronting drought-like conditions linked to climate variability.
Senior Meteorological Officer Elmo Burke revealed that rainfall totals in 2026 have fallen significantly below normal levels: “We have received only 8.66 inches of rainfall by the end of May when we normally should have received 15 inches — put simply, we have received 44% less rainfall up to the end of May compared to our long-term average.” A drought warning was issued for St. Kitts in May and is expected to persist through the hurricane season up to the end of November. The forecast is driven by a strong El Niño event and recurring Saharan dust intrusions. While cautioning that this does not mean no rainfall will occur during hurricane season, Burke warned the dry trend is likely to persist. The forecast carries implications for agriculture, water supply, manufacturing and wildfire management. Pemberton warned against complacency: “Let us not become complacent. Let us not let our guards down. Let us not say that because of the El Niño effect that we are not going to experience any hurricane for 2026. It only takes one, ladies and gentlemen. Let us be prepared. Let us stay resilient and let us understand that we are all in this together.”