ST. EUSTATIUS--St. Eustatius is currently under a tropical storm warning as tropical depression number nine is approaching, Deputy Government Commissioner Alida Francis said Wednesday morning. The storm is expected to pass approximately 168 kilometres south/southwest of Statia around 1:00pm today, she said.
Heavy rainfall, rough seas and strong winds are expected to have an effect on local conditions throughout today, and tomorrow, Thursday, July 30, with the risk of flash floods and mudslides. Strong winds will be blowing in from the northeast. Tropical storm gusts up to 60 miles per hour are expected.
“Everyone is, therefore, requested to make final arrangements around their home and yard to ensure that all loose objects, including garbage bins, are properly secured,” Commissioner Francis said.
By Wednesday afternoon waves are expected to increase by nine to 12 feet and by Wednesday night to between 12 and 15 feet.
Cargo could only be collected in the harbour warehouse between 9:00am and 12:00pm, after which the warehouse closed. Persons who have no business to conduct in the Lower Town area were advised not to venture into that area after noon today. Due to high winds F.D. Roosevelt Airport will remain closed until 7:00am on Friday, July 31. Also due to the expected heavy rainfall motorists are advised not to park their vehicles on Fort Oranjestraat or H.M. Queen Beatrixstreet. As the weather conditions were expected to further deteriorate residents were advised to stay off the streets.
Government offices and the day-care centres are closed today. The Queen Beatrix Medical Centre remains open for emergencies only.
Businesess remained open until midday to allow residents to make use of the morning hours to stock up on last-minute items they may need in the next few days. The pharmacies also remained open until 12:00 to allow persons who needed medication.
“Let us be prepared and let us remain vigilant in order to keep ourselves and our families safe,” said Francis, who promised regular updates via the local radio station, the social media and the St. Eustatius government website.
