Grand Cayman (GIS) – The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) is asking people to remain off the roads in view of flooding and worsening conditions by Tropical Storm Eta today, Saturday, 7 November 2020.

The storm is now designated Tropical Storm Eta. According to the National Weather Service Director, Mr. John Tibbetts, TS Eta at 10 am was 45 miles to the WNW of Grand Cayman and is expected to move northeast and strengthen. Eta is projected to pass 99 miles NW of Cayman Brac by early Saturday night and over central Cuba by Sunday morning. Eta is supporting tropical storm force winds over the Cayman Islands for the next 24 hours.

            People are strongly asked to stay off the roads as much as possible. However, those living in low lying areas, facing flooding and having to seek shelter in public shelters are strongly advised to be cautious while on the roads if getting to shelters; be mindful of possible downed power lines.

Public shelters are open in George Town, Bodden Town and West Bay, East End and North Side. The shelters open are: George Town: Red Cross Shelter – Huldah Avenue – open from 9 am; and from 12 noon – John Gray High School Gym – pets allowed; Bodden Town – BT Primary School and Breakers Community Centre; East End – William Allen McLaughlin Civic Centre; North Side – Craddock Ebanks Civic Centre; and West Bay – John Gray Memorial Church.

            For those seeking transport to the shelters and for further shelter information and all general information emanating from the storm, the public are asked to call the NEOC Call Centre at 949-6555. For all emergencies, call 911.

            The Mental Health Hotline at 1-800-534-6463 is open today.

            Advising the people of the Cayman Islands, Deputy Governor, Hon. Franz Manderson said, “Once again, we are asking that people take the advice from authorities seriously. Please also get your information from the official sources.

            “Conditions are likely to get worse as the day goes forward. Eta is now declared a Tropical Storm as it passes by Grand Cayman.

            “Please be safe, stay off the roads, get to shelters if living in low lying areas and facing flooding. And get your information from official sources.”

For the latest weather updates, visit www.weather.gov.ky

For tips to prepare for severe weather, visit www.caymanprepared.ky

For the latest government news and updates, visit www.gov.ky/all-news

For all government office closures and other bulletin board notices, visitwww.gov.ky/news/noticeboard