PHILIPSBURG:--- Based on the latest weather information at 11:00 PM on Friday from the Meteorological Department of Sint Maarten regarding the approach of Tropical Storm Fiona, once the 5:00 AM weather update is known, a decision will be taken on whether a curfew will be introduced Saturday morning.
After consultations between the Police, the Minister of Justice, the Secretaries General of Justice, and General Affairs, MDS, and the National Disaster Coordinator, consideration has been given for a curfew on Saturday.
This is due to the approach of Tropical Storm Fiona which could bring heavy rainfall during Saturday that could cause flash floods thereby endangering road users. Motorists and pedestrians should remain at home.
All measures are being taken in order to ensure the safety of the population. Residents are asked to adhere to the directives of the authorities in the interest of preserving/saving lives.
This announcement will be made at 6:00 AM via the Government communication channels such as Facebook @SXMGOV and the Government Radio Station SXMGOV 107.9 FM.
All businesses are to remain closed until further notice, and the public should remain indoors until advised further.
At 11:00 PM, Tropical Storm Fiona was located approximately 110 miles southeast of Sint Maarten.
On its present track, according to the Meteorological Department of Sint Maarten, Fiona is forecast to pass at its closest 80 miles southwest of St. Maarten on Saturday morning, the threat of heavy rainfall causing flooding during the morning hours is still high. Maximum sustained winds have increased to 60 miles per hour.
The country remains under a Tropical Storm Warning.
For weather information, visit the Meteorological Department of Sint Maarten website www.meteosxm.com or visit their social media page Facebook.com/sxmweather/
The next live update by the Prime Minister will be on Saturday, September 17 at 9:00 AM via Facebook Live @SXMGOV and SXMGOV Radio 107.9 FM.
