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by pltm
(PLTM) - As the people of the Virgin Islands anticipate the passage of TS Fiona, acting Governor David Archer Jr., sought to offer updates and to reassure the public.
“We have had a mostly quiet night and morning as Tropical Storm Fiona has continued to move west. Please be advised that the Virgin Islands remains on Tropical Storm Warning, with tropical storm conditions potentially arriving this afternoon and continuing into tomorrow,” the Acting Governor stated.
He continued by saying, “The Department of Disaster Management continues to monitor Fiona’s developments closely. Sustained wind speeds are estimated at 60 miles per hour, and they extend out up to 125 miles from the centre.”
Acting Governor Archer Jr., announced that forecaster have identified a re-formed centre farther to the east, along with a shift toward the north in its movement and a decrease in forward speed.
“All of this means that the Virgin Islands is likely to continue to experience rainfall and gusty conditions well after the centre of the storm passes our area,” he explained.
He also implored the business community to remain responsive and make adjustments where necessary’
“I know that serving your customers and clients is important, but I urge businesses to consider closing doors early to allow staff to return home safely, as well as to allow the secure closing of premises,” he noted.
The acting Governor also said that they anticipate the likely impacts of heavy rains rough seas; flash flooding, especially in low-lying or flood prone areas; and gusty conditions.
The Virgin Islands remains under a small craft warning, with waves 7-13 feet high as well as storm surge of 1-3 feet. The experts at the National Hurricane Centre estimate that we may yet see rainfall totals between 4-6 inches.
"Out of an abundance of caution, I am asking that anyone who is not an essential worker please stay home and off the road until an all clear is given," the Acting Governor stated.
He added, “This request is to protect you, and helps protect emergency responders from making any unnecessary call-outs."
He assured the public that officers from the critical public services have been working to prepare for the impacts of Tropical Storm Fiona, putting storm plans into action.
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