Residents should increase their activities and be ready for any impending storm, says Her Excellency the Governor Elizabeth Carriere.
During Tuesday’s press conference at the Governor’s Office, Carriere said that the hurricane season is entering its most active period and it was crucial for residents to do what was necessary to prepare.
According to weather.com, “the number of named storms forecast to develop in the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season has increased slightly in the final forecast issued Friday by the Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project.
“A total of 16 named storms and eight hurricanes are expected in the Atlantic Basin, according to the CSU forecast, led by Dr. Phil Klotzbach. Three of the eight hurricanes are forecast to be Category 3 or stronger on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.”
Last week, the RFA Mounts Bay visited the island and conducted several exercises to test its readiness to respond to emergencies on island. The ship tested their ability to offload vehicles and to move large pieces of equipment around the island. Montserrat’s mountainous terrain and curves proved a challenge, however, the military support teams now feel confident that they can navigate the island in any eventuality.
Tony Bates, Head of the Governor’s Office added that while the Disaster Management Coordination Agency (DMCA) was doing its part along with the government, the business community and residents must ensure homes are clear of debris, shutters are ready, and they have adequate water stored.
Both officials said there was still work to do in order for residents to take hurricane preparation more seriously.
