Director of Disaster Management Jasen Penn has said that Hurricane Erin’s close pass is a reminder that the busiest period of the Atlantic Hurricane Season is now underway.

“Approximately 85 % of all tropical storm activity in the Atlantic takes place in August, September and October,” Mr. Penn said, adding, “That means it is crucial for persons to take all the necessary steps to be ready for the potential of storm impacts on our shores.”

The Virgin Islands experienced widespread flooding in low-lying areas around the Territory after Hurricane Erin dropped more than 9 inches of rain on Road Town between August 16 and August 17. The extent of the rain also caused multiple minor mudslides, which, in turn, led to some water and electricity infrastructure damage and outages.

Mr. Penn is advising persons to incorporate their observations of how the weekend’s showers impacted them into family or business emergency planning.

“Everyone should reflect on areas where they can strengthen their level of readiness. That might be adjusting plans, acquiring additional equipment, or carrying out preventive maintenance and making repairs,” Mr. Penn said. 

The director also recognised residents and businesses for remaining at home and safe throughout much of the adverse weather this weekend.

He said, “We all know it is a burden to reschedule plans, to adjust staffing for a business, to prepare your property. I commend our people who are willing to take these steps in the name of safety.” 

Erin formed as a Tropical Storm on August 11th and had strengthened to a Category 1 hurricane by August 15. The system underwent rapid intensification, becoming a Category 5 hurricane on August 16. Wind gusts up to 42 miles per hour were recorded in Road Town, with higher elevations seeing even higher gusts.

Residents can access tools to get prepared, such as family emergency plan templates, business continuity plan templates, the latest emergency shelter list, and hurricane tracking maps on www.bviddm.com. For advice on how to prepare at home or at work, persons can contact the DDM at ddm@gov.vg or by calling the department at 468-4200.

Note to editors: Image included
CAPTION: Two areas of disturbed weather have the potential for further development in the coming days. (Credit: NOAA/NHC)