Cayman Strengthens Readiness in Annual Hurricane Exercise

The Cayman Islands Government, through Hazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI), has completed its annual National Hurricane Exercise, held from June 16 to 20. This exercise reinforces the country’s commitment to building a culture of readiness ahead of the peak of the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season.

More than 115 departments and agencies—represented by 18 team leaders across the Cayman Islands Government—were engaged throughout the week-long exercise, supporting a cross-government approach to preparedness, response, and recovery. This marked the third consecutive year of scenario-based command training delivered by the UK-based Gold-Silver-Bronze (GSB) command structure specialists, which guide strategic response during major incidents.

“Each year, we push ourselves to improve. This year’s exercise helped us strengthen coordination, build capacity, and test complex scenarios. Under the theme start with the end in mind, it was emphasised that recovery begins with how we plan and act in those first hours,” said Dani Coleman, Director of Hazard Management Cayman Islands. “This was not just a drill—it was an opportunity to learn, grow, and reaffirm our shared responsibility to protect lives and livelihoods.”

The 2025 exercise also addressed critical gaps identified in previous years, with targeted improvements in process design, capacity building, and inter-agency coordination. A unique component of this year’s training included a simulated court case, led by Barrister Graham Watson, following a major incident scenario. 

Lead facilitator Paul Dutton of GSB praised the growing expertise within the Cayman Islands Government, stating:

“The commitment to realistic training and honest evaluation is what distinguishes strong emergency management systems. It’s clear the Cayman Islands is developing a high-performing emergency response structure, and that comes down to leadership, dedication, and a culture that values preparedness.”

The National Hurricane Exercise remains a cornerstone of the country’s preparedness efforts. With hurricane season underway, HMCI continues to work across government and with community partners to ensure the Cayman Islands is equipped to face any hazard with confidence and coordination.