The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) has advised the public to be vigilant as the Dominica Meteorological Service has indicated that severe weather is projected to affect Dominica starting today, Wednesday June 30th and continuing into Saturday, July 3rd 2021.
National Disaster Preparedness Coordinator, Fitzroy Pascal said in a statement that this is as a result of two active tropical waves and informed the public to expect delays or disruption to normal activities, particularly on Friday into Saturday and they should therefore, make advanced plans.
“Of note, the second tropical wave which currently has a moderate to high chance of development, could be a tropical storm in the next few days and produce tropical storm force conditions across Dominica from Friday into Saturday,” Pascal said.
He said hazards that are likely to affect Dominica and which would necessitate recommended safety actions by the public from Wednesday June 30th into Saturday July 3rd, include flash flooding and overflowing of waterways such as rivers and ravines.
“Be mindful of the usual hot spots. People who live along waterways including rivers and ravines should be vigilant and be aware of their surroundings during this time. Be ready to move to a safe area if rising water is observed. Avoid areas subject to flash flooding, and do not attempt to cross rivers,” the ODM director advised.
Pascal noted that just six inches of fast moving water can knock you down and one foot of fast moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
“Landslide and rock falls are highly possible. If you must move around be alert while traversing landslide and rock fall hotspots such as the Tarreau cliff, under Canefield cliff, Champagne area near Pointe Michel, Bagatelle, Dubuque, and Bellevue Chopin,” Pascal stated.
He added that tropical storm force winds are possible on Friday into Saturday. This means, he pointed out, that some outdoor activities may be impossible or difficult by Friday afternoon due to tropical storm force winds and heavy rains.
“Plan ahead and limit outdoor activities where possible. The public is strongly encouraged to take the necessary precautions to safeguard life and property including securing loose objects, secure compromise roofs, windows and doors, trim overhanging trees that could pose a danger to your home and ensure an emergency safety kit is ready,” he further advised.
The ODM chief also cautioned that rough seas are expected to create hazardous conditions for users of the sea starting today and should deteriorate by Friday into Saturday. He said boat operators are advised to have plans in place by Thursday evening, to safeguard boating equipment.
Pascal gave the assurance that The National Emergency Planning Organization (NEPO) stands ready to provide support and that the ODM will continue to monitor and provide the necessary updates.
Thanks ODM! We will be mindful and take the necessary measures and precautions.
In the same breath, will someone tell jason to stop putting disturbance in his community?! No one has appointed this guy, jason as chairman of any disaster committee in La Plaine. Jason is not the chairman. There is a functioning committee in the village taking care of business of which this guy is not part of, that’s why he is so obsess and mad about. This guy is a trouble maker just like Lennox. They both like observant. He must stop that nonsense, period.
I guess is tropical storm Mehul Choksi? Thats the only storm affecting Dominica now