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PHILIPSBURG, St. Maarten – Prime Minister Marcel Gumbs, chairman of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), received an update on Sunday from members of the EOC about the current status of Tropical Storm Danny.
The actions being taken by the Government of Sint Maarten are of a precautionary nature. The Prime Minister gave a national address with respect to the current decisions that have been taken.
“Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for Sint Maarten as a precautionary measure. The system is expected to pass further to the south of the country based on information received from Sunday morning.
“Forecast rainfall could be two to four inches. In the event of continuous heavy rainfall, the possibility does exist for land slippages and those living in hillside areas should exercise caution. Due to the drought situation that the country has experienced over the past months, flooding is possible, as the water may not drain directly into the ground.
“Weather conditions are forecasted to deteriorate late Sunday night or early Monday morning.
“Waste haulage companies were busy on Saturday picking up garbage and will continue to do so until Sunday afternoon. GEBE operations based on current data in connection with electricity and water services will continue undisrupted we expect. St. Peters Hurricane Shelter, Rupert Maynard, will be open as a precautionary measure.
“Schools are closed on Monday, August 24 as well as daycare centers. Government services are also closed on Monday, August 24.
“All businesses are to be closed from 10.00PM Sunday evening, August 23 until further notice. This includes restaurants and casinos. The aforementioned decision related to businesses will be evaluated based on the latest weather reports as that becomes available from the Meteorological Services.
“Staff who provides essential services for Hotel operations, the aforementioned can continue to remain open based on the hotel’s disaster plan in providing hospitality services to our visitors.
“Airlines services continue to operate as normal on Sunday. In connection with Monday, August 24, travelers should call their respective airlines for information.
“The landfill will remain open on Sunday until sunset.
“The actions taken to date and in connection for Monday, August 24, are of a precautionary nature to safeguard life and property in the event things should change.
“Let me repeat this once again:
“I will address the nation at noon on Monday, August 24 to give an update with respect to the situation,†Marcel Gumbs, Prime Minister of Sint Maarten said on Sunday in a national address to the nation.
