The Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and Consumer Protection of the Virgin Islands Legislature convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding local weather monitoring and disaster preparedness. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for the establishment of a dedicated meteorological office in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) to enhance the territory's capacity to track and interpret weather data independently.

The discussions began with a review of the challenges faced during past hurricanes, particularly Hurricane Dorian in 2019, which underscored the necessity for timely weather updates. The committee noted that reliance on external sources, such as the National Weather Service in San Juan, is inadequate, especially during emergencies. The proposed legislation aims to empower the USVI to generate its own weather data, thereby improving response times and accuracy in forecasting.

Concerns were raised regarding recent federal budget cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which have resulted in significant staff reductions, including meteorologists essential for effective weather forecasting. The committee reported that the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) currently operates without a full-time meteorologist, despite having a budget of nearly $10 million and 156 funded staff positions.

The proposed meteorological office would not only hire a professional meteorologist but also support staff, including a hydrologist. This office would utilize satellite radar, weather stations, and buoys to provide real-time forecasts and alerts, conduct public education on weather preparedness, and collaborate with national agencies. A key component of the proposal is the establishment of a Doppler weather radar station on the East End of Saint Croix, which would significantly enhance weather coverage for the Caribbean region.

The committee emphasized the importance of this initiative for various stakeholders, including fishermen, farmers, and the general public, who rely on accurate weather information for safety and operational decisions. The proposed Doppler radar system would address existing coverage gaps and improve the detection of severe weather, which is currently hindered by geographical limitations.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical need for the Virgin Islands to develop its own meteorological capabilities to ensure public safety and preparedness in the face of climate change. The proposed legislation aims to establish a self-sufficient weather monitoring system that would allow the territory to respond effectively to natural disasters and protect its residents. The committee plans to continue discussions on funding and implementation strategies for this vital initiative.