From June 11 to 13, 2024, the Regional Hurricane Emergency Simulation Exercise (SIMEX) was carried out in El Salvador. This event brought together representatives of seven Caritas in the region and representatives of the EMPOWER project of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) with the aim of strengthening response capabilities in the face of natural disasters, especially hurricanes. The agenda included sessions on anticipatory action, climate forecasting tools, composition and distribution of emergency kits, and review of preparedness and response plans. In addition, practical simulations were carried out focusing on the actions necessary before, during and after the impact of a hurricane. This exercise sought to improve the coordination and effectiveness of emergency response in the region, promoting the cooperation and resilience of affected communities.

During the event, the importance of emergency preparedness mechanisms and tools to monitor hurricanes was highlighted. Among these mechanisms are the development and updating of contingency plans, the conduct of training and drills, and inter-institutional coordination. To monitor hurricanes, early warning systems, satellite technology and forecast models are used to provide accurate and timely information on weather conditions. These measures are crucial to improve response capacity and reduce the impact of disasters on vulnerable communities.

Carlos Rivas, technical advisor for disaster risk reduction of the EMPOWER platform, commented on preparedness and response tools: "The development of risk monitoring and assessment tools is increasingly important for the management of emergency response preparedness and attention. They help in making decisions based on evidence and allow clarity about the decision to intervene and how to do it better. These tools provide quick and accessible information that improves the design of response programs. Technological advances allow organizations to access this information to improve their emergency preparedness and response processes."

One of the most dynamic moments of the meeting was the performance of a desktop drill. The different Cáritas used both prior knowledge and that acquired in the sessions, with the participation of SELACC, CRS and Cáritas Española as interlocutors of the exercise. The strengths of each Cáritas were highlighted, such as having emergency plans, water purifier kits, purchasing management during an emergency and a network of volunteers. Areas for improvement were also identified, such as the creation of an emergency fund, the development of diocesan emergency protocols, specialization in shelters, tool boxes and communication strategies among others.

CRS has held these events in previous years and is confident of being able to continue doing them to continue training the MAGRE teams in the region through its EMPOWER program.