BRADES, Montserrat — Montserrat has begun a major disaster preparedness operation following the arrival of Royal Navy patrol vessel HMS Trent, which is conducting a three-day visit to the island from October 6 to October 8.

The visit forms part of Operation VENTUS, with HMS Trent working alongside the Disaster Management Coordination Agency, Royal Montserrat Defence Force, Royal Montserrat Police Force and other local agencies.

One of the central activities will be a major incident medical evacuation exercise, designed to test how Montserrat would respond to a serious disaster requiring coordinated emergency medical assistance. The programme also includes familiarisation visits involving the hospital, fire and rescue services and local clinics.

The Royal Navy crew is also working with Montserrat's police marine unit on maritime safety and security, while engaging with the island's Sea Cadets.

The exercise comes during the Caribbean hurricane season and reflects Montserrat's need to maintain strong emergency-response capabilities in the face of hurricanes, volcanic activity and other natural hazards.

Governor Harriet Cross welcomed the operation, describing cooperation between Montserrat's agencies and the Royal Navy as important to strengthening the island's resilience and emergency readiness.

The three-day operation gives Montserrat's emergency teams an opportunity to test procedures, strengthen coordination and build practical experience before another major incident occurs.