Providenciales, TCI, September 28, 2016 – One death reported from St. Vincent and the Grenadines as strong TS Matthew lashes the islands of the South Western Caribbean. DDME Director Dr. Virginia Clerveaux is being briefed regularly by her counterparts in the strike zone.
The damage already being caused by the 13th named system for the 2016 season is further evidence that it only takes one, that one does not have to be a severe hurricane and proof that preparedness is key. TCI has fortunately missed a direct impact so far this year, and this is a blessing. Though there is a tendency for some to feel cheated when a storm dissipates or changes trajectory; it is undeniable that the spending on preparation is far less expensive and painful than paying for a direct hit.
Storms in recent years caused mainly flood damage and have cost TCI hundreds of millions in direct spending and lost revenue, combined. Matthew is forecast to become a hurricane and will make a northern turn which will send it in our general direction. Brace for it by being prepared and recognize that here is still one more month left in the hurricane peak season.
DDME has already had meetings with District Commissioners ahead of TS Matthew and tomorrow, Shelter Managers will run a simulation of setting up a storm shelter….. it will happen at the Gus Lightbourne Gym.
