Good afternoon everyone. Many of you would have been following the progress of Hurricane Beryl which is projected to pass south of the Territory late Sunday going into Monday. On its current trajectory, it is not expected to directly impact the BVI although we may have some associated effects.
The latest forecast has indicated that the hurricane maintains maximum sustained winds of 80 miles per hour and forecasters have advised that additional strengthening is possible today.
The forecasters have also advised that there is a potential for Beryl to gradually weaken to tropical storm strength when it enters the Caribbean waters due to wind sheers tomorrow.
As a precautionary measure in response to the potential threat posed by Hurricane Beryl, following consultations with the acting Premier and on the advice of the Director of the Department of Disaster Management, I have activated the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).
This is a good time to remember to Be Ready and Stay Ready.
I am urging residents to advance their preparations in the event that the situation changes and we are impacted by Hurricane Beryl.
There are currently twenty-six (26) buildings that can be used as emergency shelters across the Territory, and in the event that it is necessary to activate these shelters we will do so in a timely manner.
It is important that we continue to work together to ensure that we are ready and remain ready for whatever path the storm takes. Myself, along with the DDM will continue to provide the public with guidance on the best measures to be taken as we continue to prepare.
As Government continues to ramp up its preparations, I ask that you do likewise – clear up debris, prioritise repairs, stock up on supplies, support those in the community who may need assistance.
Continue to listen to local stations and our social media outlets for information tips, weather advisories, and the latest information pertinent to the current storm conditions.
