The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is taking steps to strengthen its
Meteorology Services Department.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced a new initiative to enhance the
department’s ability to predict, monitor, and respond to hurricanes and other severe
weather events.
This announcement was made during the inaugural National Climate Outlook
Forum.
Prime Minister Browne highlighted the urgent need for adaptation, stressing that
the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorology Services must lead the way in addressing
the increasing impacts of climate change.
In line with this commitment, the Cabinet has agreed in principle to create 12 new
positions within the Meteorology Services Department. These new hires will
include experts proficient in sophisticated weather models and algorithms.
Specific roles will encompass an oceanographer, an agrologist, additional
climatologists, a communication specialist, a project management team, and a
quality management team.
Prime Minister Browne also emphasized the importance of ambition within the
department, assuring that the Cabinet would provide the necessary funding to
support increased efforts.
Just last week, Director of Met Services, Dale Destin, said there was a need for
additional staff in the department to effectively handled the increasing demands
that are made on the department