Emergency services activated in St Kitts Nevis in preparation for heavy rains

BASSETERRE, St Kitts, CMC – Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis Dr Terrance Drew has activated all emergency services in preparation for the arrival of severe weather.

In an address to the nation on Saturday, the Prime Minister said the federation has heightened disaster preparedness efforts, “recognising the growing threat of Hurricane Tammy.”

“Our national security apparatus is fully prepared to provide the highest level of protection for our citizens. We owe a debt of gratitude to these dedicated individuals who put the welfare of our nation above all else,” the Prime Minister noted.

“Your Government is committed to ensuring that the resources required for our national response efforts are readily available. We have faith in the National Disaster Mechanism to manage any crisis that may arise within our beautiful Federation.”

In it's 2:00 p.m. update, the Miami based National Hurricane Centre said that strong winds and heavy rains are spreading across portions of the Leeward Islands.

Tammy is moving toward the northwest near 8 mph (13 km/h), and this general motion is expected to continue through tonight.  

A turn toward the north-northwest is then forecast on Sunday, followed by a turn toward the north on Monday.  On the forecast track, the centre of Tammy will move near or over portions of the Leeward Islands through early Sunday, and then move north of the northern Leeward Islands by Sunday afternoon.

Maximum sustained winds are near 85 mph (140 km/h) with higher gusts.  

Fluctuations in intensity are possible during the next few days, but Tammy is expected to remain a hurricane while it passes near or over the Leeward Islands.

Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 25 miles (35 km) from the centre and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 125 miles (205 km).

The estimated central pressure is 988 mb (29.18 inches).

Tropical storm conditions are expected within the tropical storm warning areas today and tonight, and hurricane conditions are possible in the hurricane watch areas through tonight.  

Tropical storm conditions are possible on Martinique today and the British Virgin Islands tonight and Sunday.

“In times like these, let us remember to give thanks to Almighty God and seek His protection and guidance. We pray that He will keep us safe as we weather the storm together,' the Prime Minister said.

“May God bless our Federation of St Kitts and Nevis, and may He watch over us during these challenging times. Together, we are strong, and together, we will overcome. Thank you, and please stay safe. Our Federation of St Kitts and Nevis has heightened our disaster preparedness efforts, recognising the growing threat of Hurricane Tammy.'

The Meteorological Office has warned of the likelihood of rainfall totals exceeding 6 inches, which could result in flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Residents in these areas are advised to be prepared to evacuate to higher ground.

Mariners have been instructed to remain in port and seek safe anchorage, while sea bathers should avoid beaches due to the anticipated dangerous surfs and rip currents accompanying Hurricane Tammy.

In response to the approaching hurricane, NEMA, in collaboration with the MET Office and NDMD, has activated its comprehensive disaster management (CDM) plan.

This coordination also involves the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), ensuring a regional and international response mechanism is ready to provide emergency assistance if needed.

To facilitate the protection of vulnerable citizens and those in need of housing assistance, emergency shelters have been activated across the Federation.

Ports of Entry will temporarily close in response to the hurricane, although humanitarian access will be considered on a case-by-case basis to ensure no one is left in dire need.

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