As we approach the 2024 hurricane season in the Atlantic and Caribbean regions, the Tomlin Antigua Team wants to emphasize the critical importance of preparedness in safeguarding your business against potential risks. Hurricane Irma’s impact on Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 is a stark reminder of how hurricanes can shift trajectory unexpectedly and cause extensive damage in nearby areas while sparing others.
During Hurricane Irma, Barbuda, located just 27 miles from Antigua, suffered nearly 90% structural damage, leading to a complete evacuation to Antigua. This event highlights the unpredictable nature of hurricanes and the need for businesses to heed warnings and be prepared for potential impacts.
While Antigua experienced significant but less severe effects, disruptions in education and infrastructure occurred, albeit not as severely as in Barbuda. This variability in impact underscores the importance of proactive measures and readiness, even for businesses in areas that may seem less vulnerable.
Damage in Barbuda from Irma 2017
As the Caribbean’s leading commercial insurance broker, we urge you to review your insurance coverage, including property, business interruption, and hurricane insurance. Developing emergency plans, securing your property, and supporting community-based disaster preparedness initiatives are crucial steps in mitigating risks and ensuring business continuity during and after a hurricane.
By acknowledging and addressing these differences in impact, we can collectively strengthen our resilience and ability to navigate the challenges posed by hurricanes in the region. If you have any questions or need assistance with your insurance coverage or emergency planning, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your safety and the continuity of your business are our top priorities.
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The Tomlin Brokers Antigua Team
