Dominican Republic: UNICEF used its digital youth engagement platform, U-Report, to support emergency response efforts in the Dominican Republic after Hurricane Melissa caused widespread flooding across the Caribbean in late 2025.
The initiative aimed to provide young people with timely accurate and practical information while gathering real time feedback from affected communities to guide relief efforts.
Before the storm UNICEF conducted a U-Report poll to assess preparedness levels. A second survey, launched after the hurricane, collected information on the immediate needs of affected communities. The responses helped shape communication strategies and adapt emergency messaging based on local conditions.
Drawing on the survey findings UNICEF developed five interactive chatbots covering disaster risk alerts safe water use, water tank cleaning, sanitation practices and the prevention of mosquito borne diseases such as dengue Zika and chikungunya.
The chatbots used a colour coded warning system green, yellow and red to explain risk levels and recommended actions. Under a green alert for example, users were encouraged to prepare emergency kits containing essential items such as identification documents, drinking water and flashlights.
The educational content also featured videos created by U-Reporters while the platform Youth Committee reviewed and validated all materials to ensure they were relevant and easy for young audiences to understand.
According to UNICEF the digital campaign generated more than 5,900 interactions through polls and chatbot activities, while over 4,100 participants engaged with the colour coded alert system.
The organisation said the initiative improved awareness of safe water practices, hygiene measures and disease prevention while enabling authorities to better understand community needs during the emergency.
One 16 year old U Reporter from San Pedro de Macorís highlighted ongoing challenges, saying the lack of running water for two months had made it difficult for families to meet basic daily needs.
UNICEF said the experience demonstrates how digital platforms can strengthen disaster preparedness, improve risk communication and support faster, community informed emergency responses during climate related disasters.