The island of St. Lucia is mountainous and vulnerable to landslides and flooding in coastal plains in locations such as Castries, Anse La Raye and Vieux Fort which lie below sea level. After widespread flooding in Saint Lucia from tropical storm Debbie, the Government of Saint Lucia (GOSL) undertook design work to improve the drainage systems in Castries, and Anse La Raye. In 2004, the Government requested assistance from CDB to finance a flood mitigation project. The Board of Directors (BOD) of CDB approved a loan of USD5,453,000 and a grant of USD20,000 for public education and awareness activities.