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Hurricane Irma

Years :
  • 2017
Incidents :
  • Storm
Country :
  • Barbados

Description of the mission

Participants :
  • NO
Requester :
  • OCHA

In response to the impending arrival of Hurricane Irma in September 2017, the International Humanitarian Partnership (IHP) swiftly mobilized to support the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team, focusing on strengthening communication infrastructure amidst anticipated widespread destruction. Given the hurricane’s unprecedented size and strength, which posed severe risks to Caribbean island states, IHP deployed two experienced ICT specialists from Norway’s Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB) to Barbados, acting as an early-entry hub for response efforts. This proactive, “no regrets” deployment allowed IHP to address anticipated communication breakdowns—crucial for an effective disaster response.

NASA Earth Observatory image by Joshua Stevens and Jesse Allen

The IHP specialists, trained to “help the helpers,” ensured that the UNDAC team had stable communication channels, thereby enabling continuous situational awareness and coordination with local authorities. The IHP deployment also allowed UNDAC experts, including a representative from Sweden’s Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB), to respond effectively to the rapidly evolving crisis. The deployment, initiated even before the hurricane made landfall, underscored IHP’s commitment to supporting UNOCHA and national governments by facilitating early response measures that can be scaled up as needed.

Cover Image Credit: WFP / Gabriela Alvarado

Essential equipment supporting humanitarian success

Explore the critical equipment deployed during this humanitarian mission. From advanced medical supplies to innovative logistical solutions, each resource was meticulously selected to address urgent needs on the ground. These tools exemplify our commitment to delivering efficient, effective, and tailored support in the most challenging environments.
  • ICT Support

Other missions

  • Floods
  • 2007

Ghana Floods

In response to the Ghana floods in September 2007, IHP offered vital ICT support to the UNDAC team. The deployment included satellite phones, laptops, and internet access, ensuring smooth communication and coordination during the crisis. This support facilitated quick assessments, effective relief coordination, and the timely distribution of aid to those affected by the floods.
  • TRIPLEX
  • 2016

TRIPLEX 2016

The 2016 TRIPLEX exercise, hosted by the Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection in southern Norway, brought together over 200 participants from 36 organizations and more than 70 nationalities. Centered on a realistic scenario involving Hurricane "Windblown," which devastated the fictional country of Sörland, the exercise tested emergency response coordination among UN agencies, the EU Civil Protection team, NGOs, military actors, and private sector partners. The event began with workshops on the latest humanitarian tools and mechanisms, followed by a three-day simulation focused on assessments, coordination, and response planning.
  • Conflict
  • 2011

Libya Civil War

During the 2011 Libyan civil war, IHP supported the UNDAC team by providing essential office and communication infrastructure, enabling efficient coordination and assessment of the humanitarian response in a volatile environment.

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