PHILIPSBURG:---- Prime Minister Marcel Gumbs, chairman of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), was informed on Friday morning in a mini EOC meeting about national preparations by the National Disaster Coordinator/Fire Chief Clive Richardson and other key Emergency Support Functions about the current state of affairs, and what the country can expect with respect to the approaching weather system which is currently Hurricane Danny.
The Prime Minister addressed the nation via radio at lunchtime on Friday: “The current forecast as of Friday morning, has Hurricane Danny passing through our area on Monday.
“You will be continuously informed over the weekend via radio, the Governments Website and Governments Facebook Page as the situation develops.
“Heavy rains can be expected with the passing of this weather system which can lead to street flooding and land slippages/mudslides.
“Schools are to be closed on Monday, August 24 as a precautionary measure.
“Business closure will be decided upon over the weekend if this is necessary. We have to review the latest weather reports that come in over the weekend to determine further actions.
“The various trenches and drains have been cleared to allow the free flow of storm water that could be expected. The pumps are operational and on standby.
“In connection with low lying areas around the ponds, the overflow system of the Fresh and Little Bay Pond will be prepared for a fast-run off of excess water.
“A request for military assistance by the local marines has been requested by the Ministry of General Affairs.
“The listing of hurricane shelters are: New Testament Baptist Church (A.C. Cannegieter Street, Philipsburg), Sr. Marie-Laurence School (Ellis drive 1, Middle Region), St. Maarten Academy (Cupper drive, Cul de Sac), Milton Peters College (L.B. Scott, South Reward), Rupert I. Maynard Youth Community Centre (St. Peters road, St. Peters), Leonard Connor School (Venus drive, Cay Bay), Allan C. Halley Community Centre (Simpson Bay road 27, Simpson Bay), The Salvation Army Building (Union road 59, Cole Bay), Christian Fellowship Church (Welfare road 95, Cole Bay).
“Continue to follow the latest reports regarding Hurricane Danny via local radio stations; the Government Website and the Government Facebook Page where information will be posted as it becomes available.
“Take the necessary measures required to protect your home and business. Use this time now to review your annual hurricane season kit,” Marcel Gumbs, Prime Minister of Sint Maarten said on Friday in a national address to the nation.
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