- Updates from the Islands -

- - St.Maarten/St.Martin - -

For the most recent reports from St.Maarten/St.Martin see this page.

- - - 2011 Hurricane Season - - -

- SxmDCOMM - Island under a Tropical Storm Watch; Tropical storm conditions possible within 48 hours;

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 8 Sep 2011 12:35:02 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Thursday, September 08, 2011/N241

ESF-8 Advisory 1 at 11.30am

Island under a Tropical Storm Watch; Tropical storm conditions possible within 48 hours;

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – As of 11.00am Sint Maarten us under a Tropical Storm Watch which means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the next 48 hours.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is advising the population of the South side of the island to continue to monitor weather reports as the storm approaches the Caribbean island chain.

Additional advisories will be issued throughout today as more information becomes available from the National Hurricane Center and local meteorological services.

The ODM will continue to closely monitor the progress of TS Maria as it approaches the islands.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

Best regards,
Roddy Heyliger - BB pin 21437DBE

P.O.Box 945, Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Cell: 5204217-primary, 5816323-secondary

Public Relations & Communications
Secondary Email: roddyheyliger at yahoo.com

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News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org
 
For Immediate Release: Thursday, September 08, 2011/N241
ESF-8 Advisory 1 at 11.30am
 
Island under a Tropical Storm Watch; Tropical storm conditions possible within 
48 hours; 
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? As of 11.00am Sint Maarten us under a 
Tropical Storm Watch which means that tropical storm conditions are possible 
within the next 48 hours.  

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is advising the population of the 
South side of the island to continue to monitor weather reports as the storm 
approaches the Caribbean island chain.

Additional advisories will be issued throughout today as more information 
becomes available from the National Hurricane Center and local meteorological 
services.

The ODM will continue to closely monitor the progress of TS Maria as it 
approaches the islands.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- SxmDCOMM - Office of Disaster Management Recommends Monitoring Approaching Tropical Storm Maria; Construction Sector and Wholesaler Warehouse Storage Depots requested to review plans of actions

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 7 Sep 2011 17:34:51 -0400

News Release

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, September 07, 2011/N239

Office of Disaster Management Recommends Monitoring Approaching Tropical Storm Maria; Construction Sector and Wholesaler Warehouse Storage Depots requested to review plans of actions

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) is advising the population of the South side of the island to closely monitor the progress of newly formed and 13^th storm of the season Tropical Storm (TS) Maria, which is approximately over 1000 miles from Sint Maarten in the Eastern Atlantic Ocean.

TS Maria is moving at approximately 23 miles per hour on a Westerly track which would bring it in our area over the weekend. Late Thursday an Air Force Reconnaissance aircraft will reach the system to investigate it further.

Tropical Storm Watches (issued 48 hours prior to arrival of storm conditions) could be issued on Thursday morning for the islands of the Northeastern Caribbean which includes Sint Maarten; however it is still too early to say what impact the storm will have on the local weather.

The 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) of the island’s disaster management system have been placed on standby and to monitor closely the progress of TS Maria.

Residents are therefore advised to be prepared to take action if needed.

The ODM is also advising contractors, builders and sub-contractors to review their plans of action in order to take quick action to secure job sites in the event of a passing tropical storm/hurricane.

Materials such as plywood, shingles, zinc, and other construction material could become flying missiles capable of impaling brick walls or anything in its way. Construction debris can cause severe damage to property and cost lives.

Food wholesalers and warehouse depots are requested to review their plan of action to secure their properties in the event of a storm/hurricane threat.

Materials such as plywood, shipping pallets, food pallets, pieces of metal used to secure pallet shipments, can easily become flying missiles and a threat.

The ODM will closely monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Maria and the public will be informed in future communications and advisories on Thursday and Friday.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org
 
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, September 07, 2011/N239
 
Office of Disaster Management Recommends Monitoring Approaching Tropical Storm 
Maria; Construction Sector and Wholesaler Warehouse Storage Depots requested to 
review plans of actions
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) is 
advising the population of the South side of the island to closely monitor the 
progress of newly formed and 13th storm of the season Tropical Storm (TS) 
Maria, which is approximately over 1000 miles from Sint Maarten in the Eastern 
Atlantic Ocean.

TS Maria is moving at approximately 23 miles per hour on a Westerly track which 
would bring it in our area over the weekend.  Late Thursday an Air Force 
Reconnaissance aircraft will reach the system to investigate it further.  

Tropical Storm Watches (issued 48 hours prior to arrival of storm conditions) 
could be issued on Thursday morning for the islands of the Northeastern 
Caribbean which includes Sint Maarten; however it is still too early to say 
what impact the storm will have on the local weather. 

The 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) of the island?s disaster management 
system have been placed on standby and to monitor closely the progress of TS 
Maria.

Residents are therefore advised to be prepared to take action if needed.

The ODM is also advising contractors, builders and sub-contractors to review 
their plans of action in order to take quick action to secure job sites in the 
event of a passing tropical storm/hurricane.  

Materials such as plywood, shingles, zinc, and other construction material 
could become flying missiles capable of impaling brick walls or anything in its 
way.  Construction debris can cause severe damage to property and cost lives.

Food wholesalers and warehouse depots are requested to review their plan of 
action to secure their properties in the event of a storm/hurricane threat.  

Materials such as plywood, shipping pallets, food pallets, pieces of metal used 
to secure pallet shipments, can easily become flying missiles and a threat.  

The ODM will closely monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Maria and the 
public will be informed in future communications and advisories on Thursday and 
Friday.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- SxmDCOMM - Prime Minister says maintain preparedness for busy 2011 hurricane season

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 7 Sep 2011 14:59:14 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, September 6, 2011/N235

Prime Minister says maintain preparedness for busy 2011 hurricane season

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The 2011 Atlantic Hurricane Season is in full swing with so far 12 named storms having formed already. Hurricane Katia is currently churning out in the North Atlantic Ocean and poses no threat to land at this point in time.

The prime minister, head of the disaster management organization, is calling on the populace to continue to maintain a state of preparedness in order to be able to take action in an organized manner should the country be threatened by a hurricane.

The hurricane season has moved into what is commonly referred to as the Cape Verde season, the time when there are increased numbers of tropical waves and low pressure systems coming off the coast of Western Africa near the Cape Verde islands.

On average, the seventh named storm doesn’t occur until September 16. The season so far has already seen 12 named storms. Also on average, the first hurricane of the season occurs on August 10. The accepted peak day of the hurricane season is September 10.

There was much devastation reported in the Bahamas from Hurricane Irene which passed to the South of Sint Maarten as a Tropical Storm.

Several southern Bahamian islands reported homeless residents, downed power lines, damage to other important infrastructure, destroyed homes and others that have been rendered uninhabitable.

“I appeal to the nation, to check your homes and businesses, hurricane shutters, supplies of non-perishable foods and goods, and to trim trees from around your home or business. Do and maintain the necessary things that keep you prepared to take quick action when there is a storm or hurricane threat to our country.

“Remember, it only takes one. We are fully aware of the destruction that hurricanes can cause and we must always be prepared,” Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams said on Tuesday.

The U.S. National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) updated forecast for the season calls for 14-19 named storms of which 7-10 could become hurricanes and of those 3-5 could become major hurricanes of Category 3, 4 or 5.

The hurricane season runs through November 30. The remaining names for the season are Maria, Nate, Ophelia, Philippe, Rina, Sean, Tammy, Vince and Whitney.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; Cell 00-599-581.6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, September 6, 2011/N235
Prime Minister says maintain preparedness for busy 2011 hurricane season
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The 2011 Atlantic Hurricane Season is in full 
swing with so far 12 named storms having formed already. Hurricane Katia is 
currently churning out in the North Atlantic Ocean and poses no threat to land 
at this point in time. 
The prime minister, head of the disaster management organization, is calling on 
the populace to continue to maintain a state of preparedness in order to be 
able to take action in an organized manner should the country be threatened by 
a hurricane. 
The hurricane season has moved into what is commonly referred to as the Cape 
Verde season, the time when there are increased numbers of tropical waves and 
low pressure systems coming off the coast of Western Africa near the Cape Verde 
islands.
On average, the seventh named storm doesn’t occur until September 16.  The 
season so far has already seen 12 named storms.  Also on average, the first 
hurricane of the season occurs on August 10.  The accepted peak day of the 
hurricane season is September 10. 
There was much devastation reported in the Bahamas from Hurricane Irene which 
passed to the South of Sint Maarten as a Tropical Storm.
Several southern Bahamian islands reported homeless residents, downed power 
lines, damage to other important infrastructure, destroyed homes and others 
that have been rendered uninhabitable.
“I appeal to the nation, to check your homes and businesses, hurricane 
shutters, supplies of non-perishable foods and goods, and to trim trees from 
around your home or business.  Do and maintain the necessary things that keep 
you prepared to take quick action when there is a storm or hurricane threat to 
our country.
“Remember, it only takes one.  We are fully aware of the destruction that 
hurricanes can cause and we must always be prepared,” Prime Minister Hon. Sarah 
Wescot-Williams said on Tuesday.
The U.S. National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) updated forecast 
for the season calls for 14-19 named storms of which 7-10 could become 
hurricanes and of those 3-5 could become major hurricanes of Category 3, 4 or 
5.   
The hurricane season runs through November 30.  The remaining names for the 
season are Maria, Nate, Ophelia, Philippe, Rina, Sean, Tammy, Vince and Whitney.
# # # 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; Cell 00-599-581.6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- Batten down the hatches!

By "Carolyn Lloyd" <carolynlloyd at candw.lc>
Date: Tue, 6 Sep 2011 17:03:02 -0400

Well we have been lucky so far and TD14 is forecast to be a Tropical Storm by the time it reaches us here in St Martin. But beware, hurricane status is forecast just after it passes us on Sunday – so we had better get prepared – Sunday is a long way away in weather terms and things can change – not necessarily for the better!

- SxmDCOMM - Office of Disaster Management places ESFs on Alert for High Surf from Hurricane Katia

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Fri, 2 Sep 2011 20:40:20 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Friday, September 02, 2011/N233

Office of Disaster Management places ESFs on Alert for High Surf from Hurricane Katia

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) has placed the Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) on alert with respect to forecast high surf along coastal areas that is expected from Hurricane Katia over the weekend.

The relevant ESFs have been requested to take the necessary actions should those be required.

Hurricane Katia is East of the Northeastern Caribbean islands and is forecasts to pass well North of the islands over the weekend and poses no threat to the island.

The Meteorological Department of Curacao has issued a Small Craft and High Surf Advisory for the weekend and through the beginning of the next week.

Boaters and other marine interests should take action to safeguard their properties along the coastal areas. High surf can cause beach erosion and impact seafront properties.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Friday, September 02, 2011/N233
 
Office of Disaster Management places ESFs on Alert for High Surf from Hurricane 
Katia
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) 
has placed the Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) on alert with respect to 
forecast high surf along coastal areas that is expected from Hurricane Katia 
over the weekend.

The relevant ESFs have been requested to take the necessary actions should 
those be required.

Hurricane Katia is East of the Northeastern Caribbean islands and is forecasts 
to pass well North of the islands over the weekend and poses no threat to the 
island.

The Meteorological Department of Curacao has issued a Small Craft and High Surf 
Advisory for the weekend and through the beginning of the next week.

Boaters and other marine interests should take action to safeguard their 
properties along the coastal areas.  High surf can cause beach erosion and 
impact seafront properties.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:06:53 -0400

Shout out to my fellow correspondent Steve across the way in Anguilla.

We had all of that heavy lightning and thunder here too. My rain gauge measured almost 2.5 inches this morning.

And our beaches are heavily covered with that nasty Sargasso weed too.

This is Guana Bay beach ,facing East, taken by a friend of mine.

More shout outs to our friends in Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas...and Puerto Rico too..

Lots of rain and wind, so please be careful people.

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 22 Aug 2011 13:44:38 -0400

St. Maarten just felt a rather heavy tremor.

Here is the preliminary data

http://geofon.gfz-potsdam.de/db/event.php?id=gfz2011qlal

- SxmDCOMM - Advisory 5 - Tropical Storm Warning Advisory Discontinued for Sint Maarten; Monday regular school and business day

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 21 Aug 2011 18:09:56 -0400

News Release

For Immediate Release: Sunday, August 21, 2011/N229

ESF-8 Final Advisory 5 at 6.00pm

Tropical Storm Warning Advisory Discontinued for Sint Maarten; Monday regular school and business day

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – At 5.00pm the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in its bulletin reported that Tropical Storm Irene was approximately 25 miles East of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands or approximately 92 miles West of Sint Maarten and moving away at a speed of 17 miles per hour.

The Meteorological Department of Curacao (MDC) has discontinued as of 5.00pm the Tropical Storm Warning for Sint Maarten. Small Craft Advisory remains in effect until Monday at 6.00am.

According to MDC 5.00pm weather bulletin, seas are expected to remain rough through Monday morning; a few rain bands will continue to move at times over the local region, causing periods with thundershowers through Monday morning.

Some flooding of low lying areas could still occur because of heavier showers.

This is the final advisory from the Department of Disaster Management (ODM) with respect to the progress of Tropical Storm Irene.

Monday, August 22 is a normal school and business day.

The ODM maintains its advice that during heavy rainfall, to avoid low lying areas; look out for possible street flooding and drive with caution. If the rainfall is persistent, while driving along hill sides, watch out for possible rock falls.

ODM would like to thank the general populace for their attention, observations and cooperation during the passing of Tropical Storm Irene.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org
 
For Immediate Release: Sunday, August 21, 2011/N229
ESF-8 Final Advisory 5 at 6.00pm
 
Tropical Storm Warning Advisory Discontinued for Sint Maarten; Monday regular 
school and business day
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? At 5.00pm the National Hurricane Center (NHC) 
in its bulletin reported that  Tropical Storm Irene was approximately 25 miles 
East of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands or approximately 92 miles West of Sint 
Maarten and moving away at a speed of 17 miles per hour.

The Meteorological Department of Curacao (MDC) has discontinued as of 5.00pm 
the Tropical Storm Warning for Sint Maarten.  Small Craft Advisory remains in 
effect until Monday at 6.00am.  

According to MDC 5.00pm weather bulletin, seas are expected to remain rough 
through Monday morning; a few rain bands will continue to move at times over 
the local region, causing periods with thundershowers through Monday morning.

Some flooding of low lying areas could still occur because of heavier showers.  
 

This is the final advisory from the Department of Disaster Management (ODM) 
with respect to the progress of Tropical Storm Irene.  

Monday, August 22 is a normal school and business day.

The ODM maintains its advice that during heavy rainfall, to avoid low lying 
areas; look out for possible street flooding and drive with caution.  If the 
rainfall is persistent, while driving along hill sides, watch out for possible 
rock falls.

ODM would like to thank the general populace for their attention, observations 
and cooperation during the passing of Tropical Storm Irene. 

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- SxmDCOMM - Advisory 4 - Tropical Storm Irene leaving Sint Maarten area

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 21 Aug 2011 14:51:03 -0400

News Release

For Immediate Release: Sunday, August 21, 2011/N228

ESF-8 Advisory 4 at 2.30pm

Tropical Storm Irene leaving Sint Maarten area

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – At 2.00pm the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in its bulletin reported that Tropical Storm Irene is approximately 70 miles East South East of St. Croix or approximately 60 miles South West from Sint Maarten and moving away at a speed of 18 miles per hour.

The Tropical Storm Warning and Small Craft Advisory remains in effect until further notice. It is expected that the Tropical Storm Warning will be discontinued at 5.00pm.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) will continue to monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Irene until it has moved away from our area as it is currently heading to the U.S. Virgin Islands/Puerto Rico.

Various Emergency Support Functions from the disaster management organization are out in the field assessing the situation and responding to various incidents such as street flooding.

The EOC/ODM will continue to monitor this system and the public will be duly informed as Tropical Storm Irene moves away from our area.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org
 
For Immediate Release: Sunday, August 21, 2011/N228
ESF-8 Advisory 4 at 2.30pm
 
Tropical Storm Irene leaving Sint Maarten area
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? At 2.00pm the National Hurricane Center (NHC) 
in its bulletin reported that  Tropical Storm Irene is approximately 70 miles 
East South East of St. Croix or approximately 60 miles South West from Sint 
Maarten and moving away at a speed of 18 miles per hour.

The Tropical Storm Warning and Small Craft Advisory remains in effect until 
further notice.  It is expected that the Tropical Storm Warning will be 
discontinued at 5.00pm.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) will continue to monitor the 
progress of Tropical Storm Irene until it has moved away from our area as it is 
currently heading to the U.S. Virgin Islands/Puerto Rico.

Various Emergency Support Functions from the disaster management organization 
are out in the field assessing the situation and responding to various 
incidents such as street flooding.

The ODM maintains its advice that during heavy rainfall, to avoid low lying 
areas; look out for possible street flooding and drive with caution.  If the 
rainfall is persistent, while driving along hill sides, watch out for possible 
rock falls.

The EOC/ODM will continue to monitor this system and the public will be duly 
informed as Tropical Storm Irene moves away from our area.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Sun, 21 Aug 2011 14:04:09 -0400

I just went outside and the sun is actually trying to shine.

Is it over?
All day long we have been having heavy rain and gusty winds.

I measured over 5 inches in my rain gauge since last night.

The winds are still pretty gusty but the sky is definitely lightening up.

The sea to our South is really all churned up with large swells coming in

- SxmDCOMM - Advisory 3 - Island remains under a Tropical Storm Warning; Tropical storm Irene passing South of the islands; Small craft advisory in effect

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 21 Aug 2011 12:48:13 -0400

News Release

For Immediate Release: Sunday, August 21, 2011/N227

ESF-8 Advisory 3 at 12.30pm

Island remains under a Tropical Storm Warning; Tropical storm Irene passing South of the islands; Small craft advisory in effect

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) –

Keep Off the Roads

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) advises motorists to keep off the roads if they do not have to be out at this point in time. If you have to work then drive with caution and watch out for street flooding in low lying areas and rock falls along hill sides.

Residents are asked to secure their garbage bins as there have been reports of bins along the public roads. This is creating a hazard to motorists.

Princess Juliana International Airport

PJIA is open to air traffic; however the weather situation is being closely monitored and the airport will determine when and if it is necessary to shut down operations. Those who are scheduled to travel or have friends or family arriving are asked to contact the respective airline for details.

Schools

A decision with reference to whether schools will be open or closed on Monday, August 22 will be issued in a future advisory. At this point in time it’s too early to say whether schools will be closed.

Business Community

The South side of the island is not under a curfew and businesses that are open are operating as normal. Employees should report to work. Drive cautiously.

The ODM will continue to monitor this system and the public will be duly informed.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org
 
For Immediate Release: Sunday, August 21, 2011/N227
ESF-8 Advisory 3 at 12.30pm
 
Island remains under a Tropical Storm Warning; Tropical storm Irene passing 
South of the islands; Small craft advisory in effect
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? 

Keep Off the Roads
The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) advises motorists to keep off the 
roads if they do not have to be out at this point in time.  If you have to work 
then drive with caution and watch out for street flooding in low lying areas 
and rock falls along hill sides.

Residents are asked to secure their garbage bins as there have been reports of 
bins along the public roads.  This is creating a hazard to motorists.

Princess Juliana International Airport
PJIA is open to air traffic; however the weather situation is being closely 
monitored and the airport will determine when and if it is necessary to shut 
down operations.  Those who are scheduled to travel or have friends or family 
arriving are asked to contact the respective airline for details. 

Schools
A decision with reference to whether schools will be open or closed on Monday, 
August 22 will be issued in a future advisory.  At this point in time it?s too 
early to say whether schools will be closed.

Business Community
The South side of the island is not under a curfew and businesses that are open 
are operating as normal.  Employees should report to work.  Drive cautiously.   

The ODM will continue to monitor this system and the public will be duly 
informed.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Sun, 21 Aug 2011 11:15:24 -0400

Taken from my house 5 minutes ago...... white out conditions

- It's a little windy out there!

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Sun, 21 Aug 2011 10:58:37 -0400

Taken from my house, 45 minutes ago

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhmzBfoho-0

- She's here!

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Sun, 21 Aug 2011 09:54:36 -0400

Tropical Storm Irene is hitting us with a vengeance.

The wind is howling although right now there is light rain. Heavier squalls come in from time to time.

At 9 AM the airport reported 25 mPH winds form the ENE.

I think it might be stronger now.

It seems the center of Irene is near or over Montserrat and Antigua.

Take care down there.

Hopefully this will soon be over for all of us.

- SxmDCOMM - Advisory 2 - Island remains under a Tropical Storm Warning; Tropical storm Irene to pass closer to islands throughout Sunday; Small craft advisory in effect

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 21 Aug 2011 09:13:50 -0400

News Release

For Immediate Release: Sunday, August 21, 2011/N226

ESF-8 Advisory 2 at 9.00am

Island remains under a Tropical Storm Warning; Tropical storm Irene to pass closer to islands throughout Sunday; Small craft advisory in effect

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – At 8.00am the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in its bulletin reported that Tropical Storm Irene had redeveloped throughout the night farther North therefore bringing the system closer to the islands, but still passing south of Sint Maarten.

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is closely monitoring the progress of Tropical Storm Irene and is advising the population of the South side of the island to continue to monitor weather reports as the storm passes through the island chain on Sunday.

The Meteorological Department of Curacao (MDC) which works closely with ODM says that Tropical Storm Irene is forecast to past approximately 55 miles South of Saba as a severe Tropical Storm (that is approximately 80 miles from Sint Maarten) on Sunday afternoon based on the 8.00am forecast track by the NHC.

Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate throughout Sunday as Irene passes through the islands. According to MDC winds are forecast to blow temporarily at tropical storm force and will remain strong through the evening with possible occasional gusts up to 60 miles per hour, especially in or near showers.

Seas will be rough with wave heights building possibly up to 10-feet. Owners of small boats and coastal facilities should have completed precautionary actions for safeguarding their properties.

The ODM maintains its advice that during heavy rainfall, to avoid low lying areas; look out for possible street flooding; and if the rainfall is persistent, while driving along hill sides, watch out for possible rock falls.

Heaviest rainfall activity will be during the course of Sunday with periods of thundershowers into Monday. Rainfall amounts forecast are of four to seven inches.

The EOC/ODM will closely monitor this system and the public will be duly informed.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org
 
For Immediate Release: Sunday, August 21, 2011/N226
ESF-8 Advisory 2 at 9.00am
 
Island remains under a Tropical Storm Warning; Tropical storm Irene to pass 
closer to islands throughout Sunday; Small craft advisory in effect
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? At 8.00am the National Hurricane Center (NHC) 
in its bulletin reported that  Tropical Storm Irene had redeveloped throughout 
the night farther North therefore bringing the system closer to the islands, 
but still passing south of Sint Maarten.

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Department of Disaster Management 
(ODM) is closely monitoring the progress of Tropical Storm Irene and is 
advising the population of the South side of the island to continue to monitor 
weather reports as the storm passes through the island chain on Sunday.

The Meteorological Department of Curacao (MDC) which works closely with ODM 
says that Tropical Storm Irene is forecast to past approximately 55 miles South 
of Saba as a severe Tropical Storm (that is approximately 80 miles from Sint 
Maarten) on Sunday afternoon based on the 8.00am forecast track by the NHC.

Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate throughout Sunday as Irene 
passes through the islands.  According to MDC winds are forecast to blow 
temporarily at tropical storm force and will remain strong through the evening 
with possible occasional gusts up to 60 miles per hour, especially in or near 
showers.

Seas will be rough with wave heights building possibly up to 10-feet.  Owners 
of small boats and coastal facilities should have completed precautionary 
actions for safeguarding their properties.

The ODM maintains its advice that during heavy rainfall, to avoid low lying 
areas; look out for possible street flooding; and if the rainfall is 
persistent, while driving along hill sides, watch out for possible rock falls.

Heaviest rainfall activity will be during the course of Sunday with periods of 
thundershowers into Monday.  Rainfall amounts forecast are of four to seven 
inches. 

The EOC/ODM will closely monitor this system and the public will be duly 
informed.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- SxmDCOMM - Island under a Tropical Storm Warning; Tropical storm conditions expected within 36 hours; Small craft advisory in effect

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Sat, 20 Aug 2011 22:39:08 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Saturday, August 20, 2011/N225

ESF-8 Advisory 1 at 10.00pm

Island under a Tropical Storm Warning; Tropical storm conditions expected within 36 hours; Small craft advisory in effect

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – At 7.00pm the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in its bulletin acknowledged the formation of Tropical Storm Irene which developed East of Dominica as an approaching Tropical Wave on Saturday afternoon.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is advising the population of the South side of the island to continue to monitor weather reports as the storm approaches the island chain.

The Meteorological Department of Curacao (MDC) which works closely with ODM says that Tropical Storm Irene is forecast to past approximately 160 miles South of Sint Maarten as a severe Tropical Storm on Sunday morning around 8.00am based on the 7.00pm forecast track by the NHC.

Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate throughout Saturday night into Sunday morning. According to MDC winds are forecast to increase gradually to tropical storm force Sunday morning and persist through Sunday afternoon with possible occasional gusts up to 60 miles per hour, especially in or near showers.

Seas will gradually become rough with wave heights building possibly up to 10-feet. Owners of small boats and coastal facilities are advised to take precautionary actions for safeguarding their properties.

Heaviest rainfall activity is expected during Sunday morning with rainfall amounts forecast at two to five inches.

The ODM will closely monitor this system and the public will be duly informed.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Saturday, August 20, 2011/N225
ESF-8 Advisory 1 at 10.00pm
 
Island under a Tropical Storm Warning; Tropical storm conditions expected 
within 36 hours; Small craft advisory in effect
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? At 7.00pm the National Hurricane Center (NHC) 
in its bulletin acknowledged the formation of Tropical Storm Irene which 
developed East of Dominica as an approaching Tropical Wave on Saturday 
afternoon.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is advising the population of the 
South side of the island to continue to monitor weather reports as the storm 
approaches the island chain.

The Meteorological Department of Curacao (MDC) which works closely with ODM 
says that Tropical Storm Irene is forecast to past approximately 160 miles 
South of Sint Maarten as a severe Tropical Storm on Sunday morning around 
8.00am based on the 7.00pm forecast track by the NHC.

Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate throughout Saturday night into 
Sunday morning.  According to MDC winds are forecast to increase gradually to 
tropical storm force Sunday morning and persist through Sunday afternoon with 
possible occasional gusts up to 60 miles per hour, especially in or near 
showers.

Seas will gradually become rough with wave heights building possibly up to 
10-feet.  Owners of small boats and coastal facilities are advised to take 
precautionary actions for safeguarding their properties.

The ODM maintains its advice that during heavy rainfall, to avoid low lying 
areas; look out for possible street flooding; and if the rainfall is 
persistent, while driving along hill sides, watch out for possible rock falls.

Heaviest rainfall activity is expected during Sunday morning with rainfall 
amounts forecast at two to five inches. 

The ODM will closely monitor this system and the public will be duly informed.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- Getting closer

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Sat, 20 Aug 2011 13:34:05 -0400

Satellite pictures shows 97L getting closer to us. Recon planes are on the way now.

- The blob is coming!

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Sat, 20 Aug 2011 11:05:23 -0400

That’s all it is now. It’s a great big old blob.

Will it become a TD? Will it become a tropical storm?

We shall see!

The hurricane hunters are going into it this afternoon. Then we may know more.

Either way, we are going to get some stormy weather.

Stay alert people!

and to our fellow weather correspondents in Belize and Honduras, be careful and update us when you can.

- Update

By Barbara Cannegieter <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Tue, 16 Aug 2011 21:06:39 +0000

We are having a heavy thunderstorm with a lot of rain right now on St. Maarten. And my friends were supposed to be going out on a sunset cruise right now.
OH OH! Don't think they want to be out on the water in this and don't think we will be seeing a sunset tonight.

Most of the heavy convection from this wave is west and south of us but it is elongated and we are just getting the tip of it.

http://barcann.livejournal.com

Weather Service · 1325 East West Highway · Silver Spring, MD 20910

Attachment: hurrirF.jpg
Description: JPEG image

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 15 Aug 2011 19:32:09 -0400

All is quiet on St. Maarten

We had a heavy shower this afternoon but no rain since then. I see a lot of lightning to the south and east. I think most of the convection from this wave is passing South of us.

I’m not sure what tomorrow will bring.

The little rain though this afternoon helped to cool things off a little bit.

It has been steaming here the past few days.

- 3 H's

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Sun, 7 Aug 2011 10:27:48 -0400

Hazy, Hot and Humid here!

It’s cloudy too. It’s hard sometimes to tell the difference between haze and clouds.

There is a nice breeze, but it's a warm breeze.

We have Invest 92L in the far Eastern Atlantic now.

Stay alert everyone! We’re heading towards the height of the season.

I’m still waiting for our bananas to ripen!

Attachment: P1000958.jpg
Description: JPEG image

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 3 Aug 2011 09:52:21 -0400

Good morning

It took a long time for Emily to reach and now it’s taking a long time for her to leave.

I woke up this morning expecting some sunshine. So far all we have a very dark cloudy skies and a fair amount of rain.

We had a heavy downpour earlier. It seems like we have had another inch of rain over night and this morning and it is still raining steadily.

Looks like it will stay this way for awhile.

Still, I am not complaining, and I hoping for the best for all the other islands in her way, especially Haiti.

No severe flooding for anyone, please, Emily!

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Tue, 2 Aug 2011 12:08:03 -0400

Just when you think it’s over and gone. it’s not.. Still a lot of convection around.

SXM is currently experiencing very heavy rain. it’s a total white out.

Let’s see how long it lasts.

what on earth were those boaters coming over from Anguilla yesterday thinking?

http://www.thedailyherald.com/islands/1-islands-news/19260-three-vessels-rescued-from-anguilla-channel.html

- SxmDCOMM - Tropical Storm Emily poses no threat to Sint Maarten

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 1 Aug 2011 21:49:42 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Monday, August 01, 2011/N211/ESF-8

Tropical Storm Emily poses no threat to Sint Maarten

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on Monday continued to monitor the progress of an approaching tropical wave/low pressure system, which early Monday evening became Tropical Storm Emily.

Tropical Storm Emily does not pose a threat to Sint Maarten.

A number of tropical storm watches and warnings were posted Monday evening for the Windward Islands and parts of the Leeward Island chain.

EFFECT ON LOCAL CONDITIONS according to the Meteorological Department of Curacao:

Winds: Monday evening, northeasterly to easterly, wind speeds increasing gradually to about 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 mph, mainly in showers. Tuesday through Wednesday, easterly, becoming gradually southeasterly, 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph, mainly in showers.

Seas: Easterly swells will continue to build gradually tonight. Seas will be rough from tonight through Wednesday.

Rainfall: Periods with thundershowers will occur from late tonight through Wednesday morning. Total rainfall amounts of 3 to 6 inches are possible, resulting locally in flooding of low lying areas.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) would like to thank the populace for their attention paid over the weekend and today Monday with respect to this weather system.

Tropical Storm Emily is a stark reminder that the hurricane season is upon us and we are approaching the peak period of the season that runs from mid-August to mid-October. Residents are reminded to maintain a state of readiness throughout this period.

Remember, it only takes one. Be prepared.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Monday, August 01, 2011/N211/ESF-8 
 
Tropical Storm Emily poses no threat to Sint Maarten
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on 
Monday continued to monitor the progress of an approaching tropical wave/low 
pressure system, which early Monday evening became Tropical Storm Emily.  

Tropical Storm Emily does not pose a threat to Sint Maarten.  

A number of tropical storm watches and warnings were posted Monday evening for 
the Windward Islands and parts of the Leeward Island chain. 

EFFECT ON LOCAL CONDITIONS according to the Meteorological Department of 
Curacao: 

Winds: Monday evening, northeasterly to easterly, wind speeds increasing 
gradually to about 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 mph, mainly in showers. 
Tuesday through Wednesday, easterly, becoming gradually southeasterly, 25 to 35 
mph with gusts up to 45 mph, mainly in showers. 
Seas: Easterly swells will continue to build gradually tonight. Seas will be 
rough from tonight through Wednesday. 
Rainfall: Periods with thundershowers will occur from late tonight through 
Wednesday morning. Total rainfall amounts of 3 to 6 inches are possible, 
resulting locally in flooding of low lying areas.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) would like to thank the populace 
for their attention paid over the weekend and today Monday with respect to this 
weather system.

Tropical Storm Emily is a stark reminder that the hurricane season is upon us 
and we are approaching the peak period of the season that runs from mid-August 
to mid-October.  Residents are reminded to maintain a state of readiness 
throughout this period. 

Remember, it only takes one.  Be prepared.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 1 Aug 2011 15:41:07 -0400

Me again

Here comes no name Emily.

Hope all are weathering the system OK so far.

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 1 Aug 2011 15:24:19 -0400

Oh Oh, I just posted about the sun. Where did it go?

The weather is definitely starting to change here. It's pretty gusty and we are having some light rain showers. Nothing much but the sun from this morning is mostly gone now

Our local radar is working now.

http://www.meteo.an/SatRadarImages/Img_ ... i_Loop.asp

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 1 Aug 2011 14:55:27 -0400

I blogged yesterday about waiting, watching and worrying.

http://barcann.livejournal.com/230572.html

I am still waiting and watching but maybe not worrying as much.

Looks like Emily is not Emily yet which means the islands probably will be spared from a hurricane.

Still, the more Southern islands will probably get a good blow from this thing.

So be careful down there.

It is sunny here but the winds are on the increase.

18 MPH from the ENE right now.

Hi to Lisette in Dominica. I hope Dominica is spared from any flooding this time around.

Re: your post about Martha, I think I have to claim credit for being the oldest one here.

LOL

- SxmDCOMM - EOC recommends continued vigilance; System continues to show signs of development

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 1 Aug 2011 11:28:52 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Monday, August 01, 2011/N209/ESF-8 – ANNOUNCEMENT 11.30AM

EOC recommends continued vigilance; System continues to show signs of development

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on Monday morning continues to closely monitor the approaching tropical wave/low pressure system.

A recent hurricane center reconnaissance investigation on Monday morning revealed that the tropical wave does not have a closed surface circulation center, but did find winds of near tropical storm force.

The 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) will remain on alert Monday and Tuesday.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) advises the population to continue to monitor the progress of the approaching Tropical Wave (TW)/low pressure system for possible further development.

According to the National Hurricane Center, if the system develops into a storm, tropical storm watches and warnings could be issued at very short notice for the Leeward Islands which includes Sint Maarten.

The ODM will continue to closely monitor this system for possible further development and the public will be duly informed.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Monday, August 01, 2011/N209/ESF-8 ? ANNOUNCEMENT 
11.30AM 
 
EOC recommends continued vigilance; System continues to show signs of 
development
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on 
Monday morning continues to closely monitor the approaching tropical wave/low 
pressure system.  

A recent hurricane center reconnaissance investigation on Monday morning 
revealed that the tropical wave does not have a closed surface circulation 
center, but did find winds of near tropical storm force.

The 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) will remain on alert Monday and 
Tuesday.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) advises the population to continue 
to monitor the progress of the approaching Tropical Wave (TW)/low pressure 
system for possible further development.

According to the National Hurricane Center, if the system develops into a 
storm, tropical storm watches and warnings could be issued at very short notice 
for the Leeward Islands which includes Sint Maarten.   

The ODM will continue to closely monitor this system for possible further 
development and the public will be duly informed.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- SxmDCOMM - EOC recommends continued vigilance throughout Monday as approaching tropical wave could still develop into a Tropical Depression/Storm

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 31 Jul 2011 21:39:07 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Sunday, July 31, 2011/N208/ESF-8

EOC recommends continued vigilance throughout Monday as approaching tropical wave could still develop into a Tropical Depression/Storm

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) continues to closely monitor the approaching tropical wave/low pressure system.

The 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) will remain on high alert on Monday and Tuesday and prepared to take immediate action should that be required.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is strongly advising the population to continue to monitor the progress of the approaching Tropical Wave (TW)/low pressure system which could be upgraded to either a Tropical Depression or Tropical Storm on Monday/Tuesday.

According to the National Hurricane Center, if the system develops into a storm, tropical storm watches and warnings could be issued at very short notice for the Leeward Islands.

The ODM will continue to closely monitor this system for possible further development and the public will be duly informed.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Sunday, July 31, 2011/N208/ESF-8 
 
EOC recommends continued vigilance throughout Monday as approaching tropical 
wave could still develop into a Tropical Depression/Storm
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) 
continues to closely monitor the approaching tropical wave/low pressure system. 
 

The 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) will remain on high alert on Monday 
and Tuesday and prepared to take immediate action should that be required.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is strongly advising the population 
to continue to monitor the progress of the approaching Tropical Wave (TW)/low 
pressure system which could be upgraded to either a Tropical Depression or 
Tropical Storm on Monday/Tuesday.

According to the National Hurricane Center, if the system develops into a 
storm, tropical storm watches and warnings could be issued at very short notice 
for the Leeward Islands.   

The ODM will continue to closely monitor this system for possible further 
development and the public will be duly informed.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- SxmDCOMM - EOC Activated; Recommends continued vigilance of approaching tropical wave which could become a Tropical Storm/Hurricane

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 31 Jul 2011 09:32:47 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Sunday, July 31, 2011/N206/ESF-8 9.30AM Announcement

EOC Activated; Recommends continued vigilance of approaching tropical wave which could become a Tropical Storm/Hurricane

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – On Saturday the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated placing the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) on high alert for the approaching weather system.

The next phase for the EOC, will be the Prime Minister calling a meeting of the core group of the ESFs to discuss national preparations. The Cabinet of the Governor is closely monitoring the progress of the system as well as the Dutch Military.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is strongly advising the population to continue to monitor the progress of the approaching Tropical Wave (TW) system which could be upgraded to either a Tropical Depression or Tropical Storm today. The system also has the potential to become a hurricane.

The system is located over 600 miles away East of the Eastern Caribbean island chain out in the Atlantic Ocean.

According to the National Hurricane Center out of Miami, tropical storm watches or warnings would likely be required later today. The Center is also sending an aircraft to investigate the system later this afternoon.

The ODM will continue to closely monitor this system for possible further development and the public will be duly informed.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Sunday, July 31, 2011/N206/ESF-8 9.30AM Announcement
 
EOC Activated; Recommends continued vigilance of approaching tropical wave 
which could become a Tropical Storm/Hurricane
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? On Saturday the Emergency Operations Center 
(EOC) was activated placing the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) on high 
alert for the approaching weather system.

The next phase for the EOC, will be the Prime Minister calling a meeting of the 
core group of the ESFs to discuss national preparations.  The Cabinet of the 
Governor is closely monitoring the progress of the system as well as the Dutch 
Military.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is strongly advising the population 
to continue to monitor the progress of the approaching Tropical Wave (TW) 
system which could be upgraded to either a Tropical Depression or Tropical 
Storm today.  The system also has the potential to become a hurricane.  

The system is located over 600 miles away East of the Eastern Caribbean island 
chain out in the Atlantic Ocean.

According to the National Hurricane Center out of Miami, tropical storm watches 
or warnings would likely be required later today.  The Center is also sending 
an aircraft to investigate the system later this afternoon.

The ODM will continue to closely monitor this system for possible further 
development and the public will be duly informed.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- Crownweather Facebook page

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Sat, 30 Jul 2011 11:49:30 -0400

For those of you on Facebook, CROWNWEATHER has a Facebook page which they update frequently.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Crown-Weather-Services/137527286264871

They have just sent this note to all their members.

PLEASE PASS THIS ON TO ALL FAMILY & FRIENDS IN THE NE CARIBBEAN

by Crown Weather Services on Saturday, July 30, 2011 at 10:52am

Let everyone you know in the Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico know that Invest 91L is expected to slow down in forward speed just as it nears the Lesser Antilles & this is where it may quickly intensify. If the NHC waits for recon to upgrade this (tomorrow afternoon), it will give much less time to prepare, much like what happened with Tomas from last year. The impact from this system as a strong TS or a hurricane will be starting Mon afternoon across the Leeward Islands & starting Tue afternoon for the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. So, prepare today for a possible impact from this potential strong TS or hurricane.

- It's coming!

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Sat, 30 Jul 2011 09:24:10 -0400

report from Rob Lightbown at Crownweather:

Crown Weather Services

Issued: Saturday, July 30, 2011 805 am EDT/705 am CDT

Invest 91-L Located 900 Miles East Of The Lesser Antilles:
I think we have our first potential significant tropical cyclone threat of the 20111 Hurricane Season. Invest 91-L, located about 900 miles or so east of the Lesser Antilles, continues to become better organized as shower and thunderstorm activity has become more concentrated during the overnight hours. It does appear looking at data this morning that a fairly well organized surface circulation exists with Invest 91-L and I fully expect this system to be upgraded to Tropical Depression #5 either later today or at the latest during Sunday morning.

My thinking this morning is that this system will track in a general west-northwestward direction and track across the Lesser Antilles somewhere between the islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe on Monday night or early Tuesday morning.

As for strengthening over the next 48 to 72 hours, the circulation, while well established is elongated and satellite imagery indicates dry air both to the north and west of Invest 91-L. The HWRF and GFDL models do very little with this system while the SHIPS and LGEM intensity guidance forecasts strengthening to a hurricane by Monday. My opinion is that the HWRF/GFDL models may be too weak and the SHIPS/LGEM models may be too strong with intensity. So, I would say tropical depression by tonight or Sunday morning, then intensification into a tropical storm by Monday morning and a forecast of this to cross the Lesser Antilles as a 65 mph tropical storm Monday night or early Tuesday morning.

After crossing the Lesser Antilles, the global and track model guidance have some differing opinions on where they track future Emily.

My main concern right now are the northeastern Caribbean Islands, including the Leeward Islands from Martinique northward to Anguilla, the US and British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Hispaniola. Everyone across the islands of the northeastern Caribbean should prepare for this potential storm this weekend. Do not wait until watches and warnings are posted and become entangled in the last minute rush to buy supplies. This system is forecast to start affecting the islands of the northeastern Caribbean as early as Monday afternoon and potentially could be a moderate to strong tropical storm or even a hurricane.

Finally, the Bahamas, as well as the Turks and Caicos islands are my other concern as this storm may affect you by later next week. Everyone across the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands should closely monitor this system and go over your hurricane disaster supply kits this weekend.

- System has a 50% chance of development now

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Fri, 29 Jul 2011 19:54:22 -0400

TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK
NWS NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL
800 PM EDT FRI JUL 29 2011

A WELL-DEFINED LOW PRESSURE SYSTEM ASSOCIATED WITH A TROPICAL WAVE
IS LOCATED ABOUT 1100 MILES EAST-SOUTHEAST OF THE LESSER ANTILLES.
WHILE THIS SYSTEM IS CURRENTLY PRODUCING ONLY LIMITED SHOWER AND
THUNDERSTORM ACTIVITY...ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS APPEAR FAVORABLE
FOR GRADUAL DEVELOPMENT OVER THE NEXT COUPLE OF DAYS. THIS SYSTEM
HAS A MEDIUM CHANCE...50 PERCENT...OF BECOMING A TROPICAL CYCLONE
DURING THE NEXT 48 HOURS AS IT MOVES WESTWARD OR WEST-NORTHWESTWARD
AT 15 TO 20 MPH.....

THIS WAVE WARRANTS WATCHING AS SOME MODELS FORECAST
DEVELOPMENT WITH A THREAT TO THE LESSER ANTILLES

- SxmDCOMM - ODM calls on population to monitor weather reports over the weekend

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Fri, 29 Jul 2011 18:07:52 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Friday, July 29, 2011/N205

ODM calls on population to monitor weather reports over the weekend

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is calling on the population to monitor a Tropical Wave (TW) system that was on Friday afternoon located over 1000 miles East-South-East of the Eastern Caribbean island chain out in the Atlantic Ocean.

According to the National Hurricane Center out of Miami, the TW shows signs of organization and environmental conditions are conducive for gradual development over the next few days.

The TW is moving West-ward to West-Northwestward at 15 to 20 miles per hour.

The ODM will be closely monitoring this system for possible further development.

Residents should use the weekend to review hurricane season preparations.

Households, business-owners and contractors should have made the necessary preparations and these should be in place.

The ODM has been recommending about preparing for the 2011 Atlantic hurricane season since mid-May and throughout the months of June and July.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Friday, July 29, 2011/N205
 
ODM calls on population to monitor weather reports over the weekend
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) 
is calling on the population to monitor a Tropical Wave (TW) system that was on 
Friday afternoon located over 1000 miles East-South-East of the Eastern 
Caribbean island chain out in the Atlantic Ocean.

According to the National Hurricane Center out of Miami, the TW shows signs of 
organization and environmental conditions are conducive for gradual development 
over the next few days.

The TW is moving West-ward to West-Northwestward at 15 to 20 miles per hour.

The ODM will be closely monitoring this system for possible further development.

Residents should use the weekend to review hurricane season preparations.  

Households, business-owners and contractors should have made the necessary 
preparations and these should be in place.

The ODM has been recommending about preparing for the 2011 Atlantic hurricane 
season since mid-May and throughout the months of June and July.

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- new invest

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Fri, 29 Jul 2011 10:58:42 -0400

We now have a new invest , 91-L.

NHC gives it a 30% of developing.

A LARGE TROPICAL WAVE ACCOMPANIED BY A WELL-DEFINED LOW PRESSURE
SYSTEM IS LOCATED ABOUT 1200 MILES EAST-SOUTHEAST OF THE LESSER
ANTILLES. THIS DISTURBANCE CONTINUES TO SHOW SIGNS OF
ORGANIZATION...AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS ARE CONDUCIVE FOR
GRADUAL DEVELOPMENT OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS. THIS SYSTEM HAS A
MEDIUM CHANCE...30 PERCENT...OF BECOMING A TROPICAL CYCLONE DURING
THE NEXT 48 HOURS AS IT MOVES WESTWARD OR WEST-NORTHWESTWARD AT 15
TO 20 MPH.

Models do not show it recurving before it nears the islands.

Rob of Crownweather.com forecasts:

“Invest 91-L Located 1200 Miles East-Southeast Of The Lesser Antilles:
Of much more concern is a fairly well organized tropical disturbance, labeled Invest 91-L by the National Hurricane Center. Invest 91-L was located this morning over the central Atlantic about 1200 miles east-southeast of the Lesser Antilles. Given the overall look of this system and the fact that environmental conditions are fairly conducive to development, I think we will see development into a tropical depression and then a tropical storm by Sunday and Monday. In fact, I will be bold and say that this system could very well become our first hurricane of the 2011 Hurricane Season.

Everyone across the Leeward and northern Windward Islands need to go over their hurricane disaster kits today as this system could be affecting you by Tuesday as a hurricane. Also, if you have family and friends in the Leeward and northern Windward Islands, let them know that they may have a hurricane threat on Tuesday.

After passing the Leeward Islands, it’s tough to say where it will go given that it is up to 5 to 7 days away, however, this system has the potential to be a threat to Puerto Rico, Hispaniola and the Bahamas.

This is a system that I will be monitoring throughout this weekend and into next week and I will keep you all updated.”

http://www.crownweather.com/?page_id=4557

This could be a close call, neighbors. Stay vigilant.

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Thu, 28 Jul 2011 11:35:10 -0400

The sun is shining in St. Maarten. I’m not sure what we will get later today.

Our thoughts are with Dominica and all the terrible destruction they are experiencing there.

People who don’t live in the Caribbean often don’t realize the damage just a tropical wave can do to our fragile ecosystems.

Be safe everyone!

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 27 Jul 2011 18:30:31 -0400

I’m back home on St. Maarten after a 3 week trip in the States. We were lucky enough to be there during the record heat wave. 103 degrees in Boston!

Now, come on, folks, it never gets that hot in the Caribbean.

The garden is wild and overgrown due to all the rain we had while we were gone. It’s raining here now as a tropical wave approaches us.

We’ve had a few heavy downpours in the past couple of hours. It looks like a rainy night ahead.

Tis the season and we wait and watch.

Tropical Storm Don has just formed in the Gulf!

- SxmDCOMM - Inclement Weather Forecasted to Continue; Drivers cautioned about: possible additional street flooding especially in low lying areas; Possible rock falls due to water saturated hill sides – drive with caution

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 8 Jun 2011 15:55:33 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, June 08, 2011/N147-3.45pm RADIO ANNOUNCEMENT

Inclement Weather Forecasted to Continue; Drivers cautioned about: possible additional street flooding especially in low lying areas; Possible rock falls due to water saturated hill sides – drive with caution

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – According to the Meteorological Department, a very moist and unstable air mass will continue to persist across the local region resulting in periods of showers and thunderstorms through at least Thursday.

The Department of Disaster Management therefore is advising motorists as it did in its advisory of Tuesday afternoon which referred to inclement weather continuing today, to continue to exercise caution while driving in low lying areas which could flood due to heavy and persistent rainfall within a short period of time.

Motorists driving near hillsides are also asked to exercise caution with respect to possible rock falls.

Drivers and individuals who do not need to be on the road should remain at home until weather conditions improve.

Throughout Wednesday morning and early afternoon, the emergency services were busy monitoring the situation closely and would move into action if required.

Personnel from the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, monitored the outflow of water at the Zagersgut Round-a-bout and the man-made Great Bay Channel was opened to allow the excess rainwater to flow into the bay.

The Department of Disaster Management will continue to monitor weather conditions and should there be a need for an advisory, one will be issued.

Should inclement weather conditions continue on Thursday, motorists are advised to follow the aforementioned advice.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, June 08, 2011/N147-3.45pm RADIO ANNOUNCEMENT
 
Inclement Weather Forecasted to Continue; Drivers cautioned about: possible 
additional street flooding especially in low lying areas; Possible rock falls 
due to water saturated hill sides ? drive with caution
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? According to the Meteorological Department, a 
very moist and unstable air mass will continue to persist across the local 
region resulting in periods of showers and thunderstorms through at least 
Thursday.  

The Department of Disaster Management therefore is advising motorists as it did 
in its advisory of Tuesday afternoon which referred to inclement weather 
continuing today, to continue to exercise caution while driving in low lying 
areas which could flood due to heavy and persistent rainfall within a short 
period of time.  

Motorists driving near hillsides are also asked to exercise caution with 
respect to possible rock falls.

Drivers and individuals who do not need to be on the road should remain at home 
until weather conditions improve.

Throughout Wednesday morning and early afternoon, the emergency services were 
busy monitoring the situation closely and would move into action if required.  

Personnel from the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment 
and Infrastructure, monitored the outflow of water at the Zagersgut 
Round-a-bout and the man-made Great Bay Channel was opened to allow the excess 
rainwater to flow into the bay. 

The Department of Disaster Management will continue to monitor weather 
conditions and should there be a need for an advisory, one will be issued.

Should inclement weather conditions continue on Thursday, motorists are advised 
to follow the aforementioned advice.  

# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 8 Jun 2011 10:51:45 -0400

It’s another rainy day for St. Maarten.

It’s raining steadily now. A little earlier we had a heavy thunderstorm with heavy rain.

According to my little back yard rain gauge, we have received another 2 inches of rain this morning.

The ground is very saturated.

During yesterday's thunderstorm a KLM jet tried to land, could not, was stuck by lightening, and had to make an emergency landing in Guadeloupe.

http://www.smn-news.com/st-maarten-st-martin-news/6791-klm-flight-hit-by-lightening-over-st-maarten-inclement-weather-causes-emergency-landing-in-guadeloupe.html

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Tue, 7 Jun 2011 14:03:26 -0400

St. Maarten is currently experiencing a thunderstorm.

There is heavy rain and minor flooding occurring.

Looking at the radar, there is more coming!

http://www.meteo.an/Radar/Img_Radar_SSS_Cappi_Loop.asp

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Sun, 5 Jun 2011 14:38:09 -0400

The weather continues hot and uncomfortable. There is just no wind.

Everyone is complaining about it.

I don’t know...do you think complaining make us feel better?

It’s cloudy today, looking like it could rain any time. So far no rain though.

At least the clouds keep the hot sun from beating down on us.

I am watching 94 L to our west. It looks like it might become our first named storm of the season.

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 1 Jun 2011 02:18:13 -0400

Let me be the first one to post on the first day of hurricane season. it’s after midnight.

I know that all my fellow islanders are well aware of the date and are thinking ahead and preparing.

I’m hoping the hurricane Gods are gentle with us this year.

I listed on my blog some of my favorite weather sites , including this one, of course.

http://barcann.livejournal.com/224818.html

- SxmDCOMM - Prime Minister Wescot to chair first EOC/ESF Meeting at beginning of 2011 Atlantic Hurricane Season

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 30 May 2011 21:11:06 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Monday, May 30, 2011/N136

Prime Minister Wescot to chair first EOC/ESF Meeting at beginning of 2011 Atlantic Hurricane Season

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Honorable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, Chairman of the Island’s Disaster Emergency Management Organization, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), comprising of 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs), will chair the first meeting of the EOC for the 2011 Atlantic Hurricane Season on Wednesday, June 1.

The Prime Minister during the meeting will be briefed with respect to the national state of preparedness for the 2011 Hurricane Season. Hurricane scientists have forecasted an above-average season in terms of named storms, hurricane and major hurricanes (category 3 or higher).

“Reminders of preparing for a forecasted busy season shouldn’t take much to get people’s attention, after hearing and witnessing week after week about the deadly tornados in the United States and other natural disasters world-wide.

“Taking extra precautions for an active hurricane season is the sensible and right thing to do now, and not wait for the last moment,” the Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams told DCOMM on Monday.

The Prime Minister was referring to the most recent tornado activity in Joplin, Missouri which has killed more than 140 persons to date. The US town is still reeling from a direct hit by a powerful tornado. This spring, more than 500 persons have lost their lives due to an active tornado season across the mid-Western United States.

“We hope and pray that whatever storms make their way across the Atlantic Ocean that they turn and remain out in the open ocean posing no threat to land. But, there’s no way to tell where a hurricane will go and therefore we must be prepared.

“We have learnt from several recent seasons, when our nation was under threat of a hurricane or directly or partially impacted by one that being prepared allowed us to weather the storm until things normalized.

“The majority of us are well aware of the destruction a hurricane can bring, but also aware of how early preparations can save us much anxiety and loss. Remember, it only takes one,” Prime Minister Wescot-Williams concluded.

The 2011 hurricane season officially runs through November 30.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Sint Maarten Department of Communication (DCOMM)

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Monday, May 30, 2011/N136
 
Prime Minister Wescot to chair first EOC/ESF Meeting at beginning of 2011 
Atlantic Hurricane Season
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Honorable Prime Minister Sarah 
Wescot-Williams, Chairman of the Island’s Disaster Emergency Management 
Organization, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), comprising of 10 Emergency 
Support Functions (ESFs), will chair the first meeting of the EOC for the 2011 
Atlantic Hurricane Season on Wednesday, June 1.

The Prime Minister during the meeting will be briefed with respect to the 
national state of preparedness for the 2011 Hurricane Season.  Hurricane 
scientists have forecasted an above-average season in terms of named storms, 
hurricane and major hurricanes (category 3 or higher).  

“Reminders of preparing for a forecasted busy season shouldn’t take much to get 
people’s attention, after hearing and witnessing week after week about the 
deadly tornados in the United States and other natural disasters world-wide.  

“Taking extra precautions for an active hurricane season is the sensible and 
right thing to do now, and not wait for the last moment,” the Prime Minister 
Sarah Wescot-Williams told DCOMM on Monday. 

The Prime Minister was referring to the most recent tornado activity in Joplin, 
Missouri which has killed more than 140 persons to date.  The US town is still 
reeling from a direct hit by a powerful tornado.  This spring, more than 500 
persons have lost their lives due to an active tornado season across the 
mid-Western United States.

“We hope and pray that whatever storms make their way across the Atlantic Ocean 
that they turn and remain out in the open ocean posing no threat to land.  But, 
there’s no way to tell where a hurricane will go and therefore we must be 
prepared.

“We have learnt from several recent seasons, when our nation was under threat 
of a hurricane or directly or partially impacted by one that being prepared 
allowed us to weather the storm until things normalized.  

“The majority of us are well aware of the destruction a hurricane can bring, 
but also aware of how early preparations can save us much anxiety and loss. 
Remember, it only takes one,” Prime Minister Wescot-Williams concluded.
 
The 2011 hurricane season officially runs through November 30.
 
# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Sint Maarten Department of Communication (DCOMM)

- SxmDCOMM - Office of Disaster Management to use Twitter and Facebook for 2011 Atlantic hurricane season

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 26 May 2011 19:33:41 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Thursday, May 26, 2011/N132

Office of Disaster Management to use Twitter and Facebook for 2011 Atlantic hurricane season

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Section Head of Disaster Management Paul Martens, says that the department will be using social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook in order to get information quicker to members of the community who utilize the aforementioned sites.

Social media are media for social interaction, using highly accessible and scalable communication techniques. Social media is the use of web-based and mobile technologies to turn communication into interactive dialogue.

People gain information and news by electronic media and print media. Social media is relatively inexpensive and accessible to enable anyone to access information.

“People will be able to sign-up for our Facebook and Twitter accounts once these are active and receive information and storm news right away once this information has been drafted by the Office of Disaster Management.

“Blackberry users who use their device to access Twitter and Facebook will be able to receive storm warning and advisory information instantly.

“This new mode of communication and dissemination of official information to the community should be seen as another step in trying to provide information as quick as possible to the community.

“The department will continue to utilize the traditional media as well for the dissemination of official storm information,” Section Head of Disaster Management Paul Martens told the Department of Communication (DCOMM) on Thursday.

The 2011 Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1^st. Various weather forecasters and agencies have in the past six weeks forecasted an active hurricane season.

The number of named storms varies between 12-18, of which six to 10 could become hurricanes; and three to six of those could become major hurricanes with over 111 miles per hour winds.

The 2011 hurricane season officially runs through November 30.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Sint Maarten Department of Communication (DCOMM)

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Thursday, May 26, 2011/N132
 
Office of Disaster Management to use Twitter and Facebook for 2011 Atlantic 
hurricane season
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? Section Head of Disaster Management Paul 
Martens, says that the department will be using social networking sites such as 
Twitter and Facebook in order to get information quicker to members of the 
community who utilize the aforementioned sites.

Social media are media for social interaction, using highly accessible and 
scalable communication techniques.  Social media is the use of web-based and 
mobile technologies to turn communication into interactive dialogue.

People gain information and news by electronic media and print media.  Social 
media is relatively inexpensive and accessible to enable anyone to access 
information.

?People will be able to sign-up for our Facebook and Twitter accounts once 
these are active and receive information and storm news right away once this 
information has been drafted by the Office of Disaster Management.

?Blackberry users who use their device to access Twitter and Facebook will be 
able to receive storm warning and advisory information instantly.

?This new mode of communication and dissemination of official information to 
the community should be seen as another step in trying to provide information 
as quick as possible to the community.

?The department will continue to utilize the traditional media as well for the 
dissemination of official storm information,? Section Head of Disaster 
Management Paul Martens told the Department of Communication (DCOMM) on 
Thursday. 

The 2011 Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1st.  Various weather 
forecasters and agencies have in the past six weeks forecasted an active 
hurricane season.  

The number of named storms varies between 12-18, of which six to 10 could 
become hurricanes; and three to six of those could become major hurricanes with 
over 111 miles per hour winds.  

The 2011 hurricane season officially runs through November 30.
 
# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Sint Maarten Department of Communication (DCOMM)

- Potential tropical development for southern Caribbean?

By "Carolyn Lloyd" <carolynlloyd at candw.lc>
Date: Sun, 22 May 2011 08:08:34 -0400

I came across this report on Crown Weather Services. It is worth keeping an eye on – especially for the southern Caribbean islands. Could we be in for an early start to the season?

Be prepared!

Quiet In The Tropics For At Least The Next Few Days; European & GFS Model Guidance Continue To Hint At Disturbed Weather With Lowering Pressures In The Southwest Caribbean Starting Late Next Week

Rob Lightbown on May 20, 2011, 6:59 am

The tropical Atlantic is quiet this morning with no development expected for at least the next several days. After that, however, the southwestern Caribbean may need to be watched as more of the model guidance members are strongly hinting at lowering pressures in the southwestern Caribbean starting as early as next Friday and continuing through the Memorial Day weekend and into the first of June. In addition, the ensemble guidance also supports the operational models in forecasting lowering pressures in the southwest Caribbean starting late next week; in fact, the ensemble guidance is hinting at two waves of lowering pressures. The first during the Memorial Day weekend and the second right around June 3rd and 4th.

The first wave of lowering pressures in the southwestern Caribbean may stem from a tropical wave that is currently over inland portions of South America. This tropical wave may track into the southwestern Caribbean over the next few days and cause a sort of buildup in energy and moisture in the southwestern Caribbean. At the same time (around late next week), the upper air pattern would strongly suggest a situational type of development where higher pressure over northeastern North America would translate to a lowering of pressures over the southwestern Caribbean.

Given all of these potential factors, there are two chances in the next couple of weeks for an outside chance of some sort of tropical development in the southwestern Caribbean/ The first chance is late next week into Memorial Day weekend and the second chance is right around the weekend of June 4/5.

Finally, it should be noted that wind shear values are forecast to become favorable for development across the Caribbean in about a week which adds another piece to the puzzle that supports the idea of the outside chance of tropical development in about a week or so from now.

- SxmDCOMM - Prime Minister Wescot calls on nation to prepare for a forecasted busy 2011 Atlantic hurricane season

By Roddy Heyliger <roddyheyliger at gmail.com>
Date: Sat, 21 May 2011 11:19:37 -0400

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net;

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, May 18, 2011/N118

Prime Minister Wescot calls on nation to prepare for a forecasted busy 2011 Atlantic hurricane season

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Honorable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, Chairman of the Island’s Disaster Emergency Management Organization, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), is calling on the Sint Maarten community to begin to prepare timely for the 2011 Atlantic hurricane season and to have the necessary plans in place by June 1^st, the beginning of the season.

Colorado State University hurricane team Phil Klotzbach and William Gray have forecasted in their April report an above-average hurricane season with 16 named storms, of which nine will become hurricanes, and five of those will become major hurricanes with over 111 miles per hour winds. Another forecast will be presented by the hurricane team early June.

Even though the official start of the season is about two weeks away, the Prime Minister is urging residents to use this period to prepare themselves adequately by reviewing their annual hurricane season preparatory list.

The Prime Minister added that the country’s disaster preparedness and emergency management mechanism are expected to be ready to deal with any eventuality arising during the 2011 Atlantic hurricane season.

“It has been projected that the 2011 season will be an active one. I am encouraging the nation to begin to prepare now, so as to mitigate the effects of a hurricane disaster. Use the time now wisely to prepare our homes, businesses and other buildings.

“It makes no sense to leave major preparations until days or hours before a hurricane is forecasted to strike. Save yourself the stress and prepare now by reviewing your disaster plan and reviewing your disaster supply kit.

“Prepare early and avoid being caught unprepared. Minimize your dependence on government, family or friends. Preparedness starts with every one of us within our communities,” Hon. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams told DCOMM on Wednesday.

Some of the preparations that should be carried out now are the removal of debris from around homes and businesses; checking hurricane shutters and the roof of your home or business to make sure windows close securely and there are no weak spots in the roof.

Persons living along coastal areas as well as those in flood prone areas should start looking at what measures they would take in the event of a hurricane or flood.

The 2011 hurricane season officially runs through November 30.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)

Sint Maarten Department of Communication (DCOMM)

News Release
 
Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, 
Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. 00-599-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: 
gis at sintmaarten.net; 
 
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, May 18, 2011/N118
 
Prime Minister Wescot calls on nation to prepare for a forecasted busy 2011 
Atlantic hurricane season
 
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) ? Honorable Prime Minister Sarah 
Wescot-Williams, Chairman of the Island?s Disaster Emergency Management 
Organization, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), is calling on the Sint 
Maarten community to begin to prepare timely for the 2011 Atlantic hurricane 
season and to have the necessary plans in place by June 1st, the beginning of 
the season.

Colorado State University hurricane team Phil Klotzbach and William Gray have 
forecasted in their April report an above-average hurricane season with 16 
named storms, of which nine will become hurricanes, and five of those will 
become major hurricanes with over 111 miles per hour winds.  Another forecast 
will be presented by the hurricane team early June.
 
Even though the official start of the season is about two weeks away, the Prime 
Minister is urging residents to use this period to prepare themselves 
adequately by reviewing their annual hurricane season preparatory list.
 
The Prime Minister added that the country?s disaster preparedness and emergency 
management mechanism are expected to be ready to deal with any eventuality 
arising during the 2011 Atlantic hurricane season.

?It has been projected that the 2011 season will be an active one.  I am 
encouraging the nation to begin to prepare now, so as to mitigate the effects 
of a hurricane disaster.  Use the time now wisely to prepare our homes, 
businesses and other buildings.  

?It makes no sense to leave major preparations until days or hours before a 
hurricane is forecasted to strike.  Save yourself the stress and prepare now by 
reviewing your disaster plan and reviewing your disaster supply kit.  
 
?Prepare early and avoid being caught unprepared.  Minimize your dependence on 
government, family or friends.  Preparedness starts with every one of us within 
our communities,? Hon. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams told DCOMM on 
Wednesday. 
 
Some of the preparations that should be carried out now are the removal of 
debris from around homes and businesses; checking hurricane shutters and the 
roof of your home or business to make sure windows close securely and there are 
no weak spots in the roof.

Persons living along coastal areas as well as those in flood prone areas should 
start looking at what measures they would take in the event of a hurricane or 
flood.  

The 2011 hurricane season officially runs through November 30.
 
# # # 
 
Roddy Heyliger (roddyheyliger at gmail.com; 00 599 581-6323)
Sint Maarten Department of Communication (DCOMM)

- Update

By "Barbara Cannegieter" <barcann at hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 20 Apr 2011 20:31:38 -0400

The weather has been beautiful this week.

The sea is flat and calm.

We can see Saba, Statia, and even St. Kitts in weather like this

http://barcann.livejournal.com

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