Cayman Islands Under Hurricane Alert: Premier Urges Public to Stay Vigilant
From Hon. Premier Wayne Panton
Grand Cayman, 23 September 2022
Premier of the Cayman Islands and Minister of Sustainability & Climate Resiliency, Hon. G. Wayne Panton, is urging the Cayman Islands public to stay vigilant and make urgent preparations for impending severe weather.
“The Cayman Islands Government has issued a Hurricane Alert based on the likelihood of rapid intensification of Tropical Depression Nine,” said Mr. Panton. “I encourage the Cayman Islands public to finalise your emergency plans and gather all necessary supplies as soon as possible. Plan to stay off of the roads from Sunday afternoon as weather conditions start to deteriorate.”
Residents in low-lying and flood prone areas are strongly encouraged to plan ahead to minimise risk to their property. Hurricanes can cause dangerous storm surges, which combined with heavy rains can produce sudden and severe flooding.
If flooding is likely in your area, you are strongly encouraged to pay attention to official sources for information on rainfall and shelter options. If the flooding is severe, consider relocating to an emergency shelter. If you go to a shelter, be sure to secure your home before leaving and turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
“The dangers of a hurricane are many and varied – from strong winds to high, crashing waves and dangerous storm surge. The best remedy against risk is preparation,” Mr. Panton said. “No two storms are the same, and everyone should take all precautions necessary to safeguard their loved ones and property.”
The Cayman Islands Government, through the Cayman Islands National Weather Service (CINWS) and Hazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI), continues to monitor Tropical Depression Nine and is taking all precautions to ensure Government is ready and able to respond to any severe weather impacts and ensure continuity of essential services.
Mr. Panton urged the Cayman Islands public to take early precautions and stay tuned to official sources for updates: “Misinformation can be dangerous in emergency situations. Please continue to monitor official sources for accurate information and guidance, including www.caymanprepared.ky,www.gov.ky, and Radio Cayman on 89.9FM in Grand Cayman or 93.9FM in the Sister Islands,” he said.
