20 Years Since Hurricane Ivan: A Nation Transformed

By: Aliya Dunstan

 In the late evening hours of 11 September 2004, Hurricane Ivan made landfall on the Cayman Islands, unleashing devastating winds and storm surge on Grand Cayman. This catastrophic event remains one of the most expensive natural disasters in history, with damages totaling USD 3 billion.

The lasting impact of this historical hurricane would influence the measurement of time for the Cayman Islands - “Before Ivan” and “After Ivan” now divide defining moments in the lives of many.

To honour this milestone, the Cayman Islands Government will commemorate Hurricane Ivan under the theme of Past. Present. Grateful. Resilient. The campaign will feature a variety of touching and educational elements, including the launch of an official Hurricane Ivan webpage and a 20th anniversary documentary. Both will provide first-hand accounts and showcase the extraordinary journey to recovery and the resiliency of the people.

“The campaign serves to recount the story of Hurricane Ivan—our story,” said Honourable Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly. “It pays tribute to those who endured great suffering, remembers the two members of our community who lost their lives, and celebrates the spirit of resilience that emerged in its wake. 

As our population has evolved over the last two decades, we recognise that younger Caymanians and new residents may not have experienced a hurricane firsthand. Therefore, the campaign also aims to raise awareness about hurricane impacts, highlight the development of our crisis management operations, and offer best practices for preparedness and safety.

We also wish to express our gratitude to those who came from near and far to assist in organising communities and rebuilding Cayman after Ivan. Above all, this commemoration is an expression of our gratefulness for the continued mercies, from Almighty God, upon our beloved Isles.”

Events during the anniversary week:

• Sunday, 8 September: National Day of Prayer

• Wednesday, 11 September: We Remember

o Special Edition of For the Record, Radio Cayman  

o Call to Prayer at Noon

o Special Edition of Talk Today, Radio Cayman 

• Wednesday, 11 September: Hurricane Ivan: Past. Present. Resilient.

o 20th yr. anniversary documentary 

o Viewed on CIGTV YouTube Channel

o Produced by Department of Communications, Cayman Islands Government

• Wednesday, 11 September: Flourishing After 20 Years: Reflecting on Hurricane Ivan

o Hosted by the Ministry of Youth, Sports & Heritage and the National Museum  

o 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM   

o Cayman Collection Centre (formerly the Motor Museum, West Bay)

• Thursday, 12 September: We are Grateful

o Thank members of our uniformed, emergency and support services

• Thursday, 12 September: Special Edition of News on CIGTV

• Friday, 13 September: Ivan by Jazz Pitcairn

o Special Feature screening and Q&A session with producer and writer of the film 

o 6:00 PM

o Camana Bay Cinemas

Further details on events taking place throughout the month will be shared via CIG channels and found on www.gov.ky .

The Cayman Islands Government recognises that revisiting the events of Hurricane Ivan may evoke strong emotions and anxiety for some residents and viewers and acknowledges the profound impact this historic event has had on many individuals. Should members of the community feel overwhelmed support and guidance from local counselling services are available. CayMind (1.800.534.6463) is here to help and ensure that all residents have access to help. 

“Your well-being is our priority, and we are committed to supporting our community through this commemorative period. 

I encourage each of you to join us as we look back on how far we have come. The country withstood the winds and waves, and the people of the Cayman Islands are forever grateful that our resilience was not defeated by the storm,” added the Hon. Premier.