Barbados continues to monitor the approach of Tropical Storm Beryl, which has the potential to become a major system by the time it reaches the island’s shores late Sunday, June 30, into Monday, July 1.
Director of the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), Kerry Hinds, has indicated that the agencies of the National Emergency Management System are currently completing final readiness checks.
And, she is appealing to residents and visitors to take all necessary precautions as the system draws nearer to the island.
It is expected to bring rainfall accumulations between three to six inches, and severe thunderstorm activity, which may cause multiple interruptions to power utilities and services. Marine conditions will be hazardous ahead of and during the system’s passage.
“I, therefore, want to encourage each and every resident and visitor in Barbados to take time to make the necessary precautions now and ensure that their families, homes, and businesses are prepared for any potential threat from weather systems during this hurricane season,” Ms. Hinds urged.
She further advised persons to remove loose objects from around their homes, secure garbage cans, remove plant pots and other loose objects to avoid them from becoming missiles during high winds.
The Director also appealed to those living in homes that could potentially become compromised during a weather event to seek shelter early with a family member or at the nearest emergency shelter.
“Do not wait until it is too late because our emergency services cannot come for you during the system’s passage. This is the time to be our brother’s keeper and offer safe haven to our neighbours in need,” she pointed out.
The further encouraged persons to ensure that they have well-stocked emergency kits ready and cautioned that they should avoid overstocking their freezers. She advised residents to increase their stock of canned or non-perishable food items, and to ensure they had adequate supplies of water stored and torch lights handy.
She added that updates will be shared regularly over the next few hours as the system approached the island. “I encourage you to continue listening to these updates from the Barbados Meteorological Services, the DEM and the Barbados Government Information Service for any developments pertaining to the approaching system,” Ms. Hinds said.
Persons may listen for updates on the DEM’s website , the Barbados Meteorological Service’s website, or the Barbados Government Information Service’s (BGIS) website. They may also view the list of emergency shelters on the DEM and BGIS websites.
In the event of an emergency, residents should contact the Barbados Police Service at 211, the Barbados Fire Service at 311, and the Barbados Ambulance Service at 511, in the event of an emergency. To make a report of damage in the wake of the system, persons can contact the DEM at 438-7575 so an official report can be taken and the relevant response agencies activated to provide assistance.
Ms. Hinds reiterated this year’s hurricane awareness theme: Early Warning, Early Action, Saves Lives!