Hurricane Irma has become a major hurricane. Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 115 mph (185 km/h) with higher gusts – a Category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Fluctuations in strength, both up and down, are possible, but Irma is expected to remain a powerful hurricane for several days.
DMCA’S Operations and Logistics Officer Kelvin White is urging residents to be prepared in the event Hurricane Irma should impact Montserrat.
He’s also encouraging residents to review their hurricane and business continuity plans, stock on emergency supplies and medications.
Mr White says although Hurricane Irma is few days away and could change direction, persons should not be complacent, stay vigilant and be prepared.
Irma is centered as of 5 p.m. AST/EDT about 720 miles (1160 km) west of the Cabo Verde Islands and about 1780 miles (2865 km) east of the Leeward Islands. Irma is moving toward the west-northwest near 12 mph (19 km/h). This motion is expected to continue today, followed by a westward turn on Saturday, and a west-southwestward motion by Sunday. It is not an immediate threat to land.
Get the latest on Irma at www.nhc.noaa.gov/#Irma
