preparedness

Yet the big banks and other institutions continue to show strong financial resilience and preparedness, it said.

"We must be at the highest levels of vigilance and preparedness, and continue our tremendous momentum," he added.

In Antigua and Barbuda, hurricane preparedness is a year-round endeavour, explains Sherrod James, director of the country's office of disaster services.

The Welsh government acknowledged there was "inadequate planning" to close schools, and the Scottish government has said there was also "limited preparedness".

Others expressed frustration and noted that military preparedness could be compromised by the meeting.