The Martinique Territorial Commission on Major Natural Hazards (CTRNM) held its 6th meeting on April 23, 2026, in Fort-de-France. Two topics dominate the discussions: the implementation of mandatory in-company training and the new flood risk management strategyn.
The meeting brought together elected officials, representatives of local governments, civil protection personnel, and professional organizations. It was chaired by David Ursulet, subprefect of Saint-Pierre, accompanied by Pierre-Emmanuel Vos, Deputy Director of the DEAL.
Mandatory Training: What the Law Requires of Businesses
The rollout of mandatory training on natural hazards is at the top of the agenda. This is not a new issue: a decree issued in May 2023 details the requirements set forth in the law of February 2022. However, two years after it took effect, the law has yet to be fully implemented in Martinique.
Regulatory Requirements
Employers now have a twofold obligation. First, they must designate an employee who is qualified in occupational safety and risk prevention. Second, this training must include a component on natural hazard prevention.
In addition, employers must inform other employees. This includes the major risks to which they are exposed, preventive measures, and the actions they should take in the event of a crisis.
Barriers to Compliance
However, this content must be based on specific local documents. In particular, it must include the Departmental Major Risk Report (DDRM) and the Natural Risk Prevention Plans (PPRN). However, only 27 municipalities have a Municipal Information Document on Major Risks (DICRIM).
This, then, is a lack of documentation that some companies must overcome. Furthermore, awareness-raising efforts must be renewed at least once a year. This is not a one-time formality, but an ongoing process that must be integrated into the company’s culture.
The Flood Risk Management Strategy in Martinique
The second key focus is the local flood risk management strategy. Martinique is regularly affected by this phenomenon. The island experiences episodes of heavy rain, often outside of hurricane season.
These sudden downpours cause rapid rises in water levels. They lead to localized flooding, resulting in loss of life and considerable property damage. Tragically, two young women recently lost their lives after being swept away by the floodwaters during a yellow alert.
The Fort-de-France/Lamentin TRI at the Heart of the Strategy
On January 4, 2013, the Prefect designated an Area at High Risk of Flooding (TRI): the Lamentin-Fort-de-France TRI. This area encompasses the human and economic interests most vulnerable to flooding.
For this TRI, the Local Flood Risk Management Strategy (SLGRI) covers the Lézarde watershed. At the same time, the CTRNM is reviewing the progress of the third cycle of the European Floods Directive.
Key Steps in the European Process
Documents were made available to the public from November 25, 2024, to May 25, 2025. They address flood risk management issues for the years 2028–2033.
This third phase involves, in particular, a review of the Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment (EPRI). It also includes the redefinition of the TRI areas. These two steps will guide future public funding.
The Barnier Fund: Financing Local Prevention Efforts
The meeting includes a 2025 budget review of the Major Natural Hazards Prevention Fund, known as the Barnier Fund. In light of increasingly frequent natural disasters, local governments can draw on this fund. It finances measures aimed at adaptation, prevention, and the protection of people and property.
Established in 1995, the Barnier Fund is dedicated to saving lives. It provides grants for prevention and protection measures aimed at mitigating major natural hazards.
Financing Options Available to Residents of Martinique
Specifically, the Barnier Fund finances work carried out by individuals and small businesses. This helps reduce the vulnerability of homes and commercial properties. It also finances the purchase of high-risk buildings by local governments.
With regard to flood prevention, projects included in a Flood Prevention Action Program (PAPI) are eligible. They receive funding ranging from 40 to 50 %, depending on the project. However, no PAPI has been formalized in Martinique to date.
This, then, is an obstacle that must be removed in order to gain full access to these essential financial resources.
What These Decisions Mean for Martinique
For employees, the stakes are immediate and tangible. The goal is to foster an awareness of major natural hazards. The aim is to prepare workers to respond appropriately in the event of a crisis. They must also understand how to manage the consequences of such risks.
For at-risk municipalities and individuals, the flood strategy offers the prospect of enhanced planning. The target date is 2033. The CTRNM, the sole consultative body on major natural hazards, plays a pivotal role.
It links national regulatory requirements to the realities on the ground in Martinique. Local Major Risk Coordinators play a crucial role in this implementation. The challenge now is to translate these institutional decisions into concrete actions at the local and regional levels.
Regarding related water issues, note that 60 % of households in Martinique manage their wastewater independently, which directly intersects with flood management concerns. Furthermore, the Fort-de-France Bay Agreement complements this strategy for sustainable water management and prevention.
