Disasters, Conflicts and Migration

For a more detailed database on disasters by country, please see the Centre for Research on Epidemiology of Disasters Country Profile. 

Seasonal Effects on Logistics Capacities

Dominica experiences two main periods, a dry season from February to June and a hurricane season from June to November. The hurricane season presents prolonged and intense rain falls causing landslides and collapses of bridges, with partial interruptions of primary and secondary roads which contributes to the increase in transport rates and consumer prices.

Capacity and Contacts for In-Country Emergency Response

Government 

Emergency response operates through the National Emergency Planning Organisation (NEPO) and the Office of Disaster Management (ODM) which provides the coordination and framework for emergency response. 

It has been identified the importance to work in conjunction with local communities in the management and coordination of disaster risk reduction through the existence of various community disaster organisations, district organisations, and the participation of community leaders. Some community groups have been equipped with relevant tools and equipment as part of the effort of an early response mechanism, given the topography of the country and resource constraint that could prevent the quick response from the authorities.  

Institutions and agencies such as DOMLEC, DOWASCO, St. John’s, Ambulance and Dominica Red Cross place heavy emphasis on community participation in the management of resources and mitigation and adaptation efforts. These communities serve in some cases as first responders who report incidents to the relevant authorities. The Local Government system has been leveraged in that respect and plays an integral role in the management of localised crisis situations with effective results in mitigation activities.  

For more information on government contact details, please see the following link: 4.1 Government Contact List. 

Humanitarian Community 

The international humanitarian community has increased their support and number of organizations present after Hurricane Maria hit the island.  Furthermore, sector groups have been established in order to coordinate with different partners around the island and provide effective solutions. 

Sector/Working Group contact list Dominica

*Not all in-country but included for communication purposes

For more information on humanitarian agency contact details, please see the following link: 4.2 Humanitarian Agency Contact List