Residents are being urged to prepare and be on the alert as the territory braces for possible bad weather from weather disturbance Potential Tropical Cyclone 6.
According to forecasters in the region, the weather disturbance is projected to pass near the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico around 2pm today.
Governor of the territory John Rankin made a special appeal to residents following the announcement of the weather disturbance.
He said, “Although no watches or warnings have been issued at this time, the experts at the Antigua and Barbuda Met Office have issued a Tropical Alert. This means that we should all be on alert in case a watch or warning becomes necessary later today or this evening.”
He added, “The alert also states that, as a reasonable worst-case scenario, we here in the BVI may see impacts such as rain, high seas, coastal flooding, and near-tropical storm-force winds.”
Governor Rankin also urged residents to get their final hurricane preparations in place to ensure their property and businesses are protected, should the territory be impacted by the weather disturbance.
“What should we do? I strongly urge all of us to take steps to ensure that our homes and businesses stand ready to face the possibility of adverse weather. Homeowners should clear debris from around their property. Loose items should be secured and any vulnerable areas should be strengthened now. Similarly, boat owners should take steps to secure their vessels, and construction site managers should prepare to anchor or store any materials that may become projectiles,” he explained.
Government doing their part
Meanwhile, Premier Andrew Fahie in a subsequent statement said his government has undertaken a number of works across the territory in preparation of the weather disturbance.
“We have been working diligently this season to clear debris, activate our plans, and do all in our power to protect the Virgin Islands, all while continuing to take steps to minimise the impact of COVID-19,” he said.
“I thank the many teams at the ministries and departments for the preparatory work they are doing and those that will continue to do because we know that once this system passes, more may follow as the season progresses. We have to remain prepared at all times,” he added.