World news story

Tropical Storm Watch for Turks and Caicos Islands and Bahamas

Tropical Storm conditions forecast in next 48 hours

From:
Governor's Office Waterloo Grand Turk
Published
9 July 2013
This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

A TROPICAL STORM WATCH IS NOW IN EFFECT FOR THE SOUTHEAST BAHAMAS AND TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS (TCI). DUE TO THE PROXIMITY OF TROPICAL STORM CHANTAL TO THESE AREAS, RESIDENTS IN SHOULD START TO MAKE PREPARATIONS AS CHANTAL APPROACHES (FORECAST TO HIT TCI ON THURDAY 11 JULY 2013).

When a Storm Watch is Issued:

  • Fix hurricane shutters or plywood sheets to upper floors of multi-storey buildings.

  • Ensure that shutters for the ground floor windows and doors are within easy reach.

  • Check that you have adequate supply of food, drinking water and at least seven days supply of prescription medication

  • Remove all pictures, clocks, books, figurines, tools, office equipment, appliances and important papers (passports, birth certificates etc.); wrap them in plastic or in waterproof containers; store in a safe place.

  • Clean, Sanitise and fill bathtubs and spare containers with water for hygienic purposes.

  • Turn your refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings, opening only when absolutely necessary.

  • Fully charged cell phone as well as an extra battery.

  • Make sure you have a fair amount of cash.

  • Replenish your vehicle’s fuel supply. Also fill containers for portable generators.

  • Park your vehicle(s) in a place that will be safest from falling trees and utility poles.

  • Move boats to safe harbour.

  • Take down radio and satellite antennas.

  • Unplug all major appliances.

  • Turn off electricity from main switch 24 hours before storm is expected to hit.

  • Ensure that your property is secured

When/If a Storm Warning is Issued:

  • Fix hurricane shutters to the remaining windows and doors.

  • If you feel your home is unsafe, proceed to the nearest Public Shelter.

  • If you are going to a shelter, take food, water, blankets, medication, personal hygiene items and all important documents.

  • Stay calm and continue to monitor the progress of the storm.

  • Do not relax precautions if there is a lull in the storm and do not go outside until the ALL CLEAR is given by the Department Management and Emergencies.

Keep tuned to your radio and television for additional messages.

Published 9 July 2013