Annual Government Hurricane Preparedness Exercise Confirms National Readiness

The Ministry of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure (MPLAHI) - through its departments and agencies; Public Works Department (PWD), National Roads Authority (NRA) and the Department of Vehicle & Equipment Services (DVES) – in collaboration with Hazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI),successfully completed the 39ᵗʰ Annual Government Hurricane-Preparedness Exercise, verifying that critical buildings and shelters can be secured within hours ahead of the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season.

The drill remains a cornerstone of the Cayman Islands’ national disaster-readiness programme, which prepares public infrastructure and response teams for the official 1 June – 30 November season.

2026 Exercise Highlights

Crews installed and removed shutters, ran standby generators under load, checked cistern water levels and conducted detailed readiness inspections across all districts. The exercise validated critical-infrastructure resilience and identified minor process refinements now under way.

Chief Officer Eric Bush, MPLAHI, said: “This annual exercise underscores the Cayman Islands’ commitment to hurricane preparedness and public safety. Through coordinated, disciplined practice, we ensure our shelters, facilities and response systems are fully ready before any storm threat arises.”

Preparedness Reminder for Residents

1. Be Prepared. Have a Plan. Download the comprehensive Hurricane Preparedness Plan booklet.
2. Know your shelter. Download the Shelter Guide to identify the nearest facility and review what to bring.
3. Maintain at least seven days’ supply of water, non-perishable food, medications and pet items.
4. Store important documents in watertight containers or secure digital form.

All resources are available at https://caymanprepared.ky/hurricanes.

No tropical system is currently threatening the Cayman Islands; the activities described were part of a planned drill.