In this context, the XXIII Regional Pre-Hurricane and Recurrent Hazards Conference 2026, organized by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, is consolidated as a key strategic platform for the region. After more than two decades of evolution, the conference has moved beyond its initial focus on the hurricane season, expanding towards a comprehensive approach that addresses recurrent risks and their operational implications within an increasingly complex humanitarian landscape.

The conference will bring together National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, government agencies, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, academia, the private sector, and the general public, promoting a multi-sectoral dialogue aimed at sharing experiences, lessons learned, technical tools, and innovative solutions. This space facilitates collaboration among key actors, strengthens regional coordination, and promotes a more collaborative and anticipatory approach to crises.

Through technical sessions, high-level panels, and interactive spaces, the conference will address critical topics such as anticipatory action, early warning systems, humanitarian financing mechanisms, operational coordination, information management, logistics, health, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), protection, gender and inclusion (PGI), and the use of emerging technologies. It will also promote the exchange of best practices and recent operational experiences to help translate knowledge into concrete action.

The 2026 Conference is not only a space for reflection, but a platform for action. Its purpose is to support informed decision-making, strengthen institutional capacities, and contribute to building more agile, coordinated, and resilient response systems. In a world where risks are rapidly evolving, this initiative reaffirms the commitment of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and its partners to work together to protect lives, livelihoods, and communities across the region.

The hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30 in the Atlantic and from May 15 to November 30 in the Pacific, is a critical period during which extreme weather conditions are expected. During these months, the oceans become cauldrons of energy, giving rise to the formation of tropical storms and hurricanes that can cause significant devastation. The impacts of these cyclones extend far beyond coastal areas, affecting economies, infrastructure, and the daily lives of communities in their path.

In the context of this hurricane season preparedness, it is essential to consider an additional factor: the forecast oscillation between ENSO and LNSO. These global climatic phenomena can influence weather patterns worldwide and has the potential to intensify or weaken hurricane activity in the Atlantic and Pacific regions. Understanding the relationship between these phenomena and hurricanes is a fundamental part of our ability to anticipate and mitigate the impacts of these extreme events.

The 2024 PHC will focus on the interaction between hurricanes and ENSO and LNSO, exploring how these phenomena can collaborate or compete in their influence on climate and meteorological systems. Our goal is to enhance the early warning, early action and early funding capacity for prediction, response, and adaptation of communities and governments to this complex dynamic.

The 2024 PHC is more than an assembly of experts; it is a call to action, a reminder of the need to prepare, cooperate, and adapt in a constantly changing world. Together, we will face the challenge of nature with wisdom and resilience, seeking a safer and more sustainable future for the Atlantic and Pacific regions.