The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) has issued the All Clear for the Cayman Islands, effective 3 pm, Monday, 26 September 2022.

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.

While weather conditions are expected to gradually improve as Hurricane Ian moves away from the area, the Cayman Islands is expected to continue to face rain, wind, rough seas and heavy swells for the next 24 hours.

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

Premier Hon. G. Wayne Panton said the Cayman Islands are fortunate to have been spared greater damage and credited the public for all efforts to be prepared ahead of the severe weather and stay safe while the storm passed.

“While we have all been very fortunate to have been spared the worst of a potentially very serious storm, I’m extremely pleased to have seen the efforts made by the Caymanian public to prepare for ‘the worst’, whilst praying for the best. In this situation, this is simply the safest, most strategic thing to do,” said Premier Panton.

“We are aware of the considerable anxiety storms can pose for our people. Although the All Clear has now been issued for our islands, we must continue to heed the advisories from HMCI, CINWS and other official sources, to ensure that we keep ourselves and our loved ones safe,” he added.

His Excellency The Governor Martyn Roper said Hurricane Ian was a timely test of the Cayman Islands’ readiness and recovery systems.

“We have been given the all clear from Hurricane Ian. Fortunately, the impact across all three Islands has not been as bad as expected, but it is always right to over prepare. It has been a great test of our systems. HMS Medway is now in our waters, having arrived here at incredible speed in challenging seas following our call for support. It is reassuring to know how fast the ship can get to us for any future weather events. The ship will be will be visible off Grand Cayman for the next couple of days. The troops may come ashore later today or tomorrow and assist with relief efforts,” he said.

“My huge thanks to everyone who has worked throughout last night and today in the National Emergency Operations Centre. Thanks in particular to Deputy Governor Franz Manderson, Hazard Management Cayman Islands led by Danielle Coleman, the Cayman Islands National Weather Service and all the other agencies including the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, Cayman Islands Fire Service, Coast Guard and the Regiment. My thanks, too, to the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence team who have been out today supporting the community with the Regiment. We have a tried and tested crisis response team that we can all be proud of. They get better each time learning lessons from previous events. Thank you also to the general public for being prepared and to Government Information Services and the media for keeping us well informed. Although the All Clear has been given there still remains a threat from waves and rain so please continue to exercise caution,” Governor Roper added.

EVALUATING DAMAGE OR RETURNING HOME

Evaluating for damage or returning to a damaged home can be both physically and mentally challenging, and the National Emergency Operations Centre reminds people to be very careful when evaluating or re-entering their homes or office buildings.

HMCI has issued the following tips to assist the community:

General Safety:

• Keep a battery-powered radio to listen for emergency updates.
• Wear sturdy work boots and gloves.
• Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left behind by floodwaters can contain sewerage and chemicals.
• Check with local authorities before using any water; it could be contaminated. Cisterns should be pumped out and the water tested by authorities before using.
• Throw out fresh food, cosmetics, and medicines that have come into contact with floodwaters.
• Check refrigerated food for spoilage – power supplies may have been disrupted during the emergency. Throw out all spoiled food and any food that you suspect might be spoiled.
• Call your insurance agent. Take pictures of damage. Keep good records of repair and cleaning costs.
• Watch out for dangerous insects. Use a stick to poke through debris.

Home Inspection:

• Before going inside, walk carefully around the outside of the home and check for loose power lines, gas leaks and structural damage. If there is the smell of gas, do not enter the home – leave immediately. Do no enter if floodwater remains around the building. If you have any doubts about safety, have the home inspected by a professional before entering.
• If your home was damaged by fire, do not enter until authorities say it is safe.
• Check for cracks in the roof and foundation. If it looks like the building may collapse, leave immediately.
• A battery-powered flashlight is the best source of light for inspecting a damaged home. CAUTION: The flashlight should be turned on outside before entering a damaged home as the battery may produce a spark that could ignite leaking gas, if present.
• Do not use oil, gas lanterns, or candles for lighting inside a damaged home. Leaking gas or other flammable materials may be present. Do not smoke. Do not turn on the lights until you’re sure they’re safe for use.
• Enter the home carefully and check for damage. Be aware of loose boards and slippery floors.
• If there is the smell gas or a hissing or blowing sound, open a window and leave immediately. Turn off the main gas valve from the outside, if possible. Call for immediate assistance – DO NOT USE A CELL PHONE in the vicinity of a gas leak. If it is necessary to shut off the gas supply at the main valve, a professional will need to turn it back on.
• Check the electrical system where visible and accessible. If there are sparks, broken or frayed wires, or the smell of hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If, however, you are wet, standing in water or unsure of your safety, do not touch anything electrical. Leave the building and seek assistance from CUC.
• Check appliances. If appliances are wet, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. Unplug appliances and let them dry out. Have appliances checked by a professional before using them again. Also have the electrical system checked by an electrician before turning the power back on.
• Check the water and sewerage systems. If pipes are damage, turn off the main water valve.
• Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches and gasoline. Open cabinets carefully. Be aware of objects that may fall.
• Try to protect the home from further damage. Open windows and doors to allow air to move through.

The National Emergency Operating Committee (NEOC) is prepared and in position to help ensure the safety and security of the Cayman Islands.  Information and details from the National Hurricane Plan can be primarily accessed through www.CaymanPrepared.ky: the emergency management, preparedness and response website