The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved funding to strengthen the communication capabilities of the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS), just as the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season begins.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant confirmed the decision during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing, noting that officials from NODS advised the government of deficiencies in their current systems.

“The individuals at NODS indicated that their various systems of communication with, of course, the various centers across the island and in Barbuda needed upgrading,” Merchant said.

He explained that the Cabinet responded by authorizing NODS to present a funding proposal without delay:“Cabinet says whatever the cost is going to be, this must be presented to Cabinet and seek the approval of Cabinet.”

“Cabinet will act,” he added, “because communication, as you know, would be vital particularly during storm season.”

The upgrade forms part of broader government efforts to prepare for what the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted will be an above-normal hurricane season. The initiative also complements the recent assignment of two long-boom excavators to NODS for clearing drains, ponds, and waterways to mitigate flood risks.