Processors and Farmers Urged to Fortify Operations Ahead of Peak Hurricane Season

As Dominica braces for the most active months of the 2025 hurricane season, the Ministry of Agriculture is urging both farmers and agro-processors to reinforce their operations and take critical precautions to safeguard food systems and livelihoods.

Agro-processors are being asked to fortify facilities by securing glass fixtures, installing storm shutters, reinforcing roofs, and elevating electrical components. With power outages likely, the Ministry strongly recommends backing up refrigeration units with alternative energy sources to preserve temperature-sensitive products. Processors are also encouraged to digitally store business data and establish continuity plans to ensure a faster post-storm recovery.

Meanwhile, the Office of Disaster Management (ODM) and Meteorological Office are working with farmers to improve climate readiness. Community training sessions are underway to help farmers interpret color-coded weather alerts, understand storm forecasts, and make timely decisions about harvesting, irrigation, and securing assets. Tailored bulletins and SMS alerts are also being rolled out to help reduce losses during extreme weather events.

This dual-track strategy is part of a wider climate resilience initiative backed by FAO, UNDP, and IICA, aimed at creating stronger food systems from production to processing. Officials emphasize that disasters affect every stage of the food supply chain and that preparedness across all levels is essential.

With rural livelihoods and food security at stake, the Ministry calls on all stakeholders to act decisively. The message is clear: being ready isn’t optional, it’s essential to survival and recovery in today’s climate reality.

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