PUBLIC ADVISORY #1 – HIGH WIND ALERT FOR TRINIDAD & TOBAGO ELEVATED TO ORANGE LEVEL

Further to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) High Wind Alert – Orange Level – issued to the public, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM) has been receiving reports of fallen trees and blown-off roofs in areas such as Waterloo, Mt. Hope, Sangre Grande, Aranguez and Union Trace in Tobago. Unfortunately, at least one incident has resulted in injuries being sustained by two individuals as a result of a fallen tree.

The ODPM therefore wishes to reinforce the advice to the public to secure loose outdoor objects, pets and livestock. Where possible, avoid unnecessary outdoor activity. Marine interests should monitor sea conditions and exercise extreme caution during this period, as marine craft can be adversely impacted by these strong winds and visibility may be extremely low during dusk and dawn. Agitated seas and 2.5m wind waves can be expected.

The TTMS also advises that gusts in excess of 60km/hr have been observed, especially in the vicinity of showers. Additionally, in the event of heavy downpours and thunderstorms, downdrafts may exceed 75km/hr. These strong winds may be brief, but are capable of displacing unsecured roofs and loose outdoor objects, as well as toppling trees and weak structures. This alert is currently expected to remain in effect until Friday 16th June, 2023, and the public is further advised to monitor official news sources and weather updates from www.metoffice.gov.tt.

The ODPM reiterates that Trinidad and Tobago is not under any Tropical Storm or Hurricane Watch or Warning.

While we experience these high winds, the ODPM also reminds persons to take the following precautions to preserve life, livelihoods and property:

Know and Reduce Your Risks

1. Firstly, stay informed by looking out for alerts, warnings, and public safety information from official sources like the ODPM, TTMS and T&TEC, Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government.

2. Do not walk, play or drive through flood waters unless it becomes absolutely necessary. 3. Be cautious when walking /driving along hillsides or landslide-prone areas.

Make/Review Emergency/Business Continuity Plans

4. Review and update your family emergency plans. If you live or work in an area that is prone to flooding or high wind damage, please adequately prepare for the possibility of an evacuation.

5. Identify easily accessible and safe locations to meet in the event that you are separated.  Prepare for the specific needs of your family, which may differ if you have pets, or people with special needs.

Prepare Emergency Resources

6. Assemble an emergency kit with enough essential items to last you and your family 3-7 days. Also, prepare a Grab and Go Bag/Kit for each family member, with essential items in the event you need to evacuate.

7. Ensure all your important documents are stored in a waterproof bag.

Act and Assist Others

8. Secure or bring indoors any loose objects such as patio furniture, garbage bags, tools, or toys that can be picked up and thrown by strong winds.

9. Ensure all doors and windows are properly closed, secured and covered (if necessary) to prevent damage and drafts.

10 Seek shelter indoors, away from windows and exterior doors, to avoid the risk of flying debris. If you believe your home is unsafe, consider evacuating to a more secure structure.

If persons are impacted by the high winds or adverse weather, immediately contact the Municipal Corporations’ Disaster Management Units and the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) via the relevant hotline numbers below:

End

Issued by:

Public Information, Education and Community Outreach Unit

Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management

To view the full release as a PDF, click here.