Private sector study: Preparedness for enhanced resilience after hurricanes Irma and Maria in Dominica and the British Virgin Islands

A new UNISDR study of the private sectors in Dominica and the British Virgin Islands finds that even though most businesses had disaster continuity plans, Maria and Irma revealed that they were unprepared for a level 5 hurricane. Businesses must recognize inconsistencies in information, resource access, education, and capacity building to enhance their resilience.

This study sought to review the efforts of the private sector in the British Virgin Islands and Dominica impacted by hurricanes Irma and Maria, in preparing for, responding to and recovering from these events. 

The study provides:

1. An understanding of BCP and business continuity management (BCM) practice in the private sector in BVI and Dominica.
2. Improved information on resilience, reconstruction and capacity building initiatives of the private sector to inform practice and address gaps.
3. Documentation of knowledge and good practices sharing in DRM in the study countries.