As concerns grow over Tropical Storm Dorian with its 60 mph winds reaching outwards of up to 45 miles from the centre of the cyclone, Governor of the Virgin Islands, H.E. Augustus J.U Jaspert aka 'Gus' has reiterated calls for residents to get prepared for the storms. Photo: DDM

In a statement released to the media, Governor Augustus J. U. Jaspert said according to weather data, Dorian will continue to gradually strengthen and track east and north and will likely pass closely to the south of the Territory, Tuesday overnight—August 27, 2019—at near hurricane strength, bringing squalls and rain. Photo: VINO/File

Both of the devastating hurricanes Irma and Maria that struck the territory in 2017, came in the month of September. Photo: VINO/File

In a statement released to the media, he said according to weather data, Dorian will continue to gradually strengthen and track east and north and will likely pass closely to the south of the Territory, Tuesday overnight—August 27, 2019—at near hurricane strength, bringing squalls and rain.

Dorian poses a threat – Gov Jaspert

“It may be tempting to consider this forecast as a miss, or a relief, but even if Dorian does not pass over the Territory directly, I would remind all residents that the BVI may still see impacts from this system,” the Governor warned.

Many regional countries including immediate neighbours are already under Hurricane Watch, while some other are under Tropical Storm Warning, Mr Jaspert noted. The Virgin Islands Department of Disaster Management (DDM) continues to monitor the situation locally. 

“We are now in the historical height of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which means that there is a high probability that after Dorian passes, another system will follow before long.”

The governor pointed out that nearly all tropical cyclones occur during the hurricane season months of June to November. According to data, September brings the warmest sea surface temperatures and with it, “the most storms” in comparison to the other months in the hurricane season.

Both of the devastating hurricanes Irma and Maria that struck the territory in 2017, came in the month of September.

Storm Shelters on standby

In similar calls from Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1), the Governor encouraged residents to carry out pre-storm preparations by checking with each other in the community, in addition to gathering essential documents, reviewing family and business emergency plans and checking on emergency stores and resupplying where necessary.

“I can assure residents that the Government has been working hard to do its part to be ready for Dorian and other storms. The territory’s 27 emergency shelters have been inspected and are standing by in case they are needed.”

The Governor said, in addition, the emergency communications network has been upgraded and VHF radios have been distributed to key personnel around the territory, including on the sister islands to ensure that communication is possible after the storms.

See Governor Jaspert's full statement Here.