SEIGONIE MOHAMMED
Climate Change Editor
Some communications infrastructure in Tobago has been compromised after the Flagstaff Communications Tower in Charlotteville sustained major damage during heavy rains and strong winds, prompting an emergency response by the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA).
Speaking to Guardian Media, TEMA Director Allan Stewart, said the tower had been in a deteriorated condition for some time prior to the incident. The severe weather experienced on Thursday exacerbated the structure’s vulnerabilities, resulting in its damage.
Stewart noted that the damage has disrupted several utility and communication services operating from the Flagstaff site. Marine communication channels have also been affected, including assets utilizing the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) and Extremely High Frequency (EHF) bands.
TEMA officials are currently conducting a preliminary damage assessment to determine the full extent of the impact and identify immediate remedial actions required to restore services.
In response to the incident, the agency has convened an emergency meeting scheduled for 9 a.m. on June 12 at the Tobago Emergency Operations Centre (TEOC), Scarborough.
Stewart says the meeting is expected to focus on the impact of the damage, safety concerns surrounding the site and restoration of affected telecommunications services.
TEMA has urged all relevant stakeholders to attend the meeting, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated approach as the island works to address the disruption and prevent further impacts on critical communications systems.
The agency said further updates will be provided as assessments continue and additional information becomes available.
