Senators debate need for full-time weather monitoring staff in Virgin Islands
May 20, 2025 | 2025 Legislature, Virgin Islands
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In a recent meeting of the Virgin Islands Legislature's Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and Consumer Protection, critical discussions unfolded regarding the territory's weather monitoring capabilities. The session highlighted a pressing concern: the absence of a dedicated staff member at the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) to monitor weather conditions full-time.
The conversation began with a vivid recounting of a recent flood event, where a senator noted that a flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service, yet there was no one at VITEMA to relay this crucial information to the public. This gap in communication could potentially lead to devastating consequences, as the territory has already suffered billions in damages from storms.
As the dialogue progressed, Ms. Burke, a key testifier, emphasized the need for at least three meteorologists—one for each major island—to ensure timely and accurate weather forecasts. She pointed out that while the starting salary for meteorologists ranges from $70,000 to $90,000, the investment could significantly enhance the territory's preparedness for severe weather events.
Senator Alma Francis Heiliger raised important questions about the cost-effectiveness of establishing a local weather office, noting that many services from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are currently provided for free. She expressed skepticism about the necessity of duplicating services that are already available, especially given the territory's pressing infrastructure issues, such as sewage management.
Senator Franklin Johnson echoed these concerns, urging caution and fiscal responsibility. He questioned whether VITEMA could sustain additional positions within its budget, emphasizing the need for a clear understanding of the financial implications before moving forward with any new initiatives.
The meeting underscored a critical crossroads for the Virgin Islands: balancing the need for enhanced weather monitoring against the backdrop of limited resources and pressing community needs. As the territory grapples with its priorities, the discussions reflect a broader challenge of ensuring public safety while managing economic constraints. The outcome of these deliberations could shape the future of emergency preparedness in the Virgin Islands, leaving residents to ponder how best to safeguard their lives and property in the face of increasingly severe weather events.
The conversation began with a vivid recounting of a recent flood event, where a senator noted that a flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service, yet there was no one at VITEMA to relay this crucial information to the public. This gap in communication could potentially lead to devastating consequences, as the territory has already suffered billions in damages from storms.
As the dialogue progressed, Ms. Burke, a key testifier, emphasized the need for at least three meteorologists—one for each major island—to ensure timely and accurate weather forecasts. She pointed out that while the starting salary for meteorologists ranges from $70,000 to $90,000, the investment could significantly enhance the territory's preparedness for severe weather events.
Senator Alma Francis Heiliger raised important questions about the cost-effectiveness of establishing a local weather office, noting that many services from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are currently provided for free. She expressed skepticism about the necessity of duplicating services that are already available, especially given the territory's pressing infrastructure issues, such as sewage management.
Senator Franklin Johnson echoed these concerns, urging caution and fiscal responsibility. He questioned whether VITEMA could sustain additional positions within its budget, emphasizing the need for a clear understanding of the financial implications before moving forward with any new initiatives.
The meeting underscored a critical crossroads for the Virgin Islands: balancing the need for enhanced weather monitoring against the backdrop of limited resources and pressing community needs. As the territory grapples with its priorities, the discussions reflect a broader challenge of ensuring public safety while managing economic constraints. The outcome of these deliberations could shape the future of emergency preparedness in the Virgin Islands, leaving residents to ponder how best to safeguard their lives and property in the face of increasingly severe weather events.
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