Fisheries Simulation Exercise: Operation Tempest

Overview

Hurricane Melissa, which passed through the Caribbean in summer 2025 was a stark reminder of the importance of hurricane preparedness practices. Its maximum sustained winds nearly doubled from 70 mph (110 km/h) to 130 mph (215 km/h) in 24 hours, shocking many countries including Jamaica. Therefore, as a part of Barbados' preparation efforts, the Fisheries Simulation Exercise: Operation Tempest.

With 40 boats participating, the event will simulate an emergency response in a controlled, realistic environment, focusing on coordination and decision-making. This will include the movement of vessels and communication protocols. Incidents will also be injected throughout the exercise to make it as realistic as possible.

Simulation Exercise Plan

The exercise will take place on the 8th of May from 0800 - 1400 hours, simulating the event of an approaching Category 4 hurricane (Hurricane Percy). With the hurricane forecasted to make landfall within 72 hours, all non-essential vessels will be ordered to evacuate from the Bridgetown Fisheries Complex and proceed to designated lift out points.

Overall, it will take place in four phases:

Phase I – Preparation

• Briefing Session: Orientation for all participants on objectives, safety protocols, and communication channels.
• Facility Readiness Check: Inspect lifting equipment, rigging gear, and safety systems.
• Scenario Setup: Simulate hurricane warning issued by the Meteorological Service.

Phase II – Activation

• Emergency Notification: Fisheries Division issues simulated hurricane alert.
• Inter-Agency Coordination: Agencies convene at the command post to assign roles and responsibilities.
• Communication Test: Radios, satellite phones, and emergency lines checked for reliability.

 Phase III – Vessel Lift-Out Operations

• Dock Master Oversight: Directs sequence of vessel lift-outs.
• Safe Handling: Crews secure vessels using slings and rigging under supervision.
• Storage Procedures: Vessels placed in designated areas with cradles/blocks.

 Phase IV– Recovery & Debrief

• Post-Storm Simulation: Agencies coordinate vessel return to water.
• Damage Assessment Drill: Inspect vessels and facility for simulated damage.
• Debrief Session: Review successes, challenges, and lessons learned.
• Evaluation Report: Document operational readiness, gaps, and recommendations.
• Health & Safety Monitoring: Safety Officer ensures compliance with sanitation and safety standards.

Expected Outcomes

Operation Tempest intends to strengthen hurricane preparedness across Bridgetown’s maritime facilities, improve communication and coordination among stakeholders, and identify critical gaps for future training. It is also expected that the exercise will validate operational capacity of the new lifting facility.