An All Clear has not yet been issued for the Cayman Islands; residents urged to remain sheltered

Issued: Grand Cayman, Monday 26 September 2022, 2 pm

The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) has downgraded the Hurricane Warning for Grand Cayman to a Tropical Storm Warning; the Sister Islands remain under a Tropical Storm Watch effective 1 pm Monday, 26 September 2022. 

While weather conditions are expected to gradually improve as Hurricane Ian moves away from the area, NEOC has not yet issued an All Clear for the Cayman Islands.

The NEOC aims to issue an All Clear for all Cayman Islands at 3 pm pending results from damage assessments, debris clearance from main roadways, utilities assessments and further downgraded weather conditions.

Deputy Governor Hon. Franz Manderson noted that some parts of the Cayman Islands continue to experience poor weather conditions and necessary assessments by emergency services teams are required before we can transition safely to an All Clear.  

“Some parts of our islands continue to experience significant gusts, heavy showers, some flooding and extremely rough seas. Do not go outside until the all clear is given,” he said. “We need the community’s cooperation to ensure our emergency service and utility providers can conduct the necessary damage assessments, clear the roads, and deal with any potential hazards. We are hopeful that the All Clear can be issued at 3 pm today so businesses and schools can reopen as normal on Tuesday. Please be patient, listen to official news sources for guidance and updates, and stay safe.”

Hurricane Ian is expected to continue on its northwest path, strengthening into a major hurricane by the time it passes over Cuba on the morning of Tuesday, 27 September.

Weather conditions across the Cayman Islands are expected to remain wet and windy for the next 48 to 72 hours, with rough seas and heavy swells continuing particularly along the south and west coast of Grand Cayman.

Cayman Islands residents are encouraged to continue to monitor official channels for updates and asked not to take any unnecessary risks in the aftermath of the storm.