even though forecasts suggest reduced activity this season
Honorable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, Chairman of the Island’s Disaster Emergency Management Organization, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), is calling on the Sint Maarten community to begin to prepare timely for the 2012 Atlantic hurricane season, and to have the necessary plans in place by June 1st, the start of the season.
Colorado State University hurricane team Phil Klotzbach and William Gray have forecasted in their early April report reduced activity for the hurricane season with 10 named storms, of which four will become hurricanes, and two of those will become major hurricanes with over 111 miles per hour winds.
Even though the official start of the season is over two weeks away, the Prime Minister is urging residents to use this period to prepare themselves adequately by reviewing their annual hurricane season preparatory list.
The Prime Minister added that the country’s disaster preparedness and emergency management mechanism are expected to be ready to deal with any eventuality arising during the 2012 Atlantic hurricane season.
"I am encouraging the nation to begin to prepare now, so as to mitigate the effects of a possible hurricane disaster in our country. Let’s use the time wisely to prepare our homes, businesses and other structures adequately in the event of a hurricane strike.
"Save yourself the stress and prepare now by reviewing your disaster plan and reviewing your disaster supply kit.
"Prepare early and avoid being caught unprepared. Minimize your dependence on government, family or friends. Preparedness starts with every one of us within our communities," Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams told DCOMM on Tuesday.
Some of the preparations that should be carried out now are checking hurricane shutters and the roof of your home or business, and to make sure windows close securely.
Persons living along coastal areas as well as those in flood prone areas should start looking at what measures they would take in the event of a hurricane which could cause flood challenges.
The 2012 hurricane season officially runs through November 30.