In light of impending severe weather associated with Tropical Storm Bret, the Office of Disaster Management (ODM) is warning Dominicans that they should be prepared. At 11:00 am on Tuesday, Bret was located 945 miles east of the southern Windward Islands, moving in a westerly direction at 21 miles per hour.
The storm is maintaining 40-mph winds and picking up speed, but the latest forecasts from the National Hurricane Center call for Bret to remain a tropical storm as it encounters conditions that may prevent it from reaching hurricane strength. Residents in the Lesser Antilles, including Dominica, have been advised to monitor the progress of Bret as it moves across the Atlantic Ocean.
As the storm approaches the islands, Fitzroy Pascal of the ODM, said that by now all Dominicans should have made the necessary preparations for the 2023 Hurricane Season.
“Take your time to check your homes, roof, windows, and doors, and cut overhanging trees”, he advised.
“Pay close attention to the information provided by the Met Service and the ODM. We all know the uncertainty with forecasting intensity, movement, and impact of weather systems. Staying informed is a critical part of your preparedness activity over the next few days and throughout the Hurricane Season.”
He stated that residents should be mindful that flash flooding and landslides are possible during times of heavy rainfall.
“Landslides are highly likely as we are coming out of a relatively dry period where grounds may be compromised or developed cracks”, he said.
“Stay alert during times of heavy rainfall. People who live along waterways, including rivers and ravines, should be vigilant. Be aware of your surrounding during rain events. Be ready to move to a safe area if rising water is observed.”
Pascal remarked that important documents should be protected in waterproof containers in the event of flooding.
“Check your emergency kit and ensure it has the necessary supplies, medication, water, mask, and sanitizer, among others”, he said.
He pointed out that roadways and bridges should be used with caution during the wet spells and water-covered roads and bridges must be used with great attentiveness.
“Avoid areas subject to flash flooding and do not attempt to cross rivers”, he noted.
“Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down and one foot of fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away.”
Another thing Pascal said residents should be aware of is flying debris in times of gusty winds, especially along roadways and elevated areas.
“Take the time to know where your emergency shelter is located”, he remarked.
“Make advanced plans when there is a threat of severe weather.”
He stated that more information can be found on the ODM website, www.odm.gov.dm, or the ODM’s Facebook page or call the ODM at 266-4412 for information on preparedness.
“Be prepared, be safe”, Pascal said.
I am listening to the media whore on q95.It is strange I have not heard from the chief weather man Thompson Fontaine.Before 2023 UWP and supporters depended on Thompson Fontaine for accurate weather reports.They accused the ODM of lying to Dominicans.