However, just because a hurricane is slow does not mean it is not dangerous.

In Haiti, USAID works with partners to pre-position relief supplies to ensure they’re quickly available to help vulnerable communities. Our partner the International Organization (IOM) for Migration stocks emergency commodities including shelter materials, blankets, hygiene kits, household items, and water purification equipment to help up to 175,000 people. Our partner the UN World Food Program (WFP) also maintains warehouses in Haiti and the Dominican Republic and is in the process of stockpiling emergency food assistance to feed nearly a quarter of a million people for a month.

Climate-related disasters—including hurricanes, storms, and flooding—are increasing in intensity and magnitude. While we can’t stop them from striking, we can, and do, work with local communities to become more resilient in the face of these disasters to better withstand the impacts of climate change.