News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I. Tel. +1 721 543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Saturday, July 27, 2013/N223

TS Dorian degenerates into a tropical wave on Saturday

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Tropical Storm (TS) Dorian on Saturday degenerated into a tropical wave approximately over 500 miles east from the Leeward Islands. 

On Saturday satellite-derived wind data according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) out of Miami indicated that Dorian no longer had a closed surface circulation, and the remnants of the system were moving rapidly at 24 miles per hour westward.

The remnants of Dorian should pass north of the Leeward Islands on Sunday and Monday.  An Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter plane is scheduled to investigate the wave on Sunday if necessary.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) has discontinued monitoring this system.

The Sint Maarten community is reminded by ODM to remain vigilant this hurricane season and to have everything in place in the event of a storm strike. Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make the season a bad one.

For those requiring information about storm/hurricane preparations, you can email dcomm at sintmaartengov.org

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; roddy.heyliger at sintmaartengov.org; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I. Tel. +1 721 543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Friday, July 26, 2013/N222

TS Dorian over 1000 miles away; System is weakening

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Tropical Storm (TS) Dorian on Friday afternoon was approximately 1000 miles East from the Leeward Islands.  The system has shown signs of weakening and is disorganized.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) will monitor the progress of TS Dorian as the storm moves towards the West at 22 miles per hour (mph).  Maximum wind speeds at 5.00pm on Friday were 45 mph.

Residents are requested to monitor weather reports over the weekend related to this system.

Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make the season a bad one.

ODM will continue to monitor the progress of this fast moving storm and will keep the country informed if there is a dramatic change in its intensity and course as this storm moves over the Atlantic Ocean.

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; roddy.heyliger at sintmaartengov.org; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I. Tel. +1 721 543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, July 24, 2013/N221

Fourth Storm of the Season TS Dorian Poses No Threat to Country Sint Maarten; Residents advised to monitor system

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The fourth storm of the Atlantic hurricane season formed on Wednesday morning – Tropical Storm (TS) Dorian - in the Atlantic Ocean more than 2000 miles from the Eastern Caribbean island chain.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) will monitor the progress of TS Dorian which up to Wednesday morning was tracking West North West at a fast 21 miles per hour (mph).  Maximum wind speeds at that time were 50 mph.

Based on historical records the 4^th storm of the season normally forms by the third week of August. Residents are requested to monitor weather reports related to this system.

The Office of Disaster Management reiterates to the nation that they should have already completed storm/hurricane preparations for the 2013 season; for those who have yet to make preparations such as putting together a family plan on where you would ride out a storm in case your home is vulnerable to a storm/hurricane (wind, flooding, storm surge); to have a disaster supply kit containing items that you will need regardless of where you will ride out a storm/hurricane.

Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make the season a bad one.

ODM will continue to monitor the progress of this fast moving storm and will keep the country informed if there is a dramatic change in its course as this storm moves over the Atlantic Ocean.

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; roddy.heyliger at sintmaartengov.org; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I. Tel. +1 721 543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Monday, July 22, 2013/N219

Tourism Sector and Business Community Reminded It Only Takes One

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon is advising the country’s economic mainstay, the tourism sector and business community, to review hurricane preparation plans since we are approaching the most active period of the 2013 hurricane season which runs from August 15 and through October 15.

The tourism sector, business community and also residents are advised to pay keen attention to weather reports with special focus on the Eastern Atlantic Ocean where tropical weather systems that form off the African Coast (Cape Verde Islands) can become a serious threat to the Eastern Caribbean island chain. 

At this stage of the hurricane season, tourism-oriented businesses should be prepared.  The prevention of the loss of life of our visitors and staff along with protecting property from damage is the responsibility of every business owner.

The engine of the economy is every single business operation on the island.  Each one plays a very important role in the island’s tourism-oriented service economy.

As the Office of Disaster Management annual theme says, “It only takes one!” Now is the time for business community in its entirety as well as residents to review what preparations are in place, and not when a storm is about to hit.

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com, roddy.heyliger at sintmaartengov.org; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release

Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, Government Administrations Building, Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I., Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, July 17, 2013/N048

Minister Lake calls on Cay Hill residents to come out and support clean-up effort in preparation for hurricane season

PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten – Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is calling on residents of the Cay Hill district to heed the call of the Cay Hill Community Council to help clean their district on Saturday.

All debris should be placed in dumpsters on Saturday and trucks will empty the dumpsters on Sunday.

“We are in the hurricane season, and it’s an individual responsibility to keep their premises around their homes and businesses clean.

“Besides, premises should be kept clean all the time.  Debris being a hurricane threat, also harbors mosquito’s which cause disease and vermin such as rats, mice and flies. 

“The clean-up appeal by the Council serves keeping the Cay Hill community debris free and lessening the threat from any flying items due to the passing of a storm.  At the same time, potential public health issues are also eliminated because contains that can hold water and become a breeding ground for the dengue mosquito is eliminated.

“The removal of old car parts and wrecks also limits the harboring of vermin therefore once again eliminating any public health issues.  A clean environment, a clean neighborhood contributes to the improvement in the quality of life of the people living in that community.

“I commend the Cay Hill Community Council and the Community Police Officer for the initiatives and work that they have been doing to date,” Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

Ministry of VROMI is an integral part of the country’s disaster management system known as Emergency Support Function (ESF-3).

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Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; roddy.heyliger at sintmaartengov.org) Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Press Secretary to the:

Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure,

Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunications,

Ministry of Finance

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I. Tel. +1 721 543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, July 10, 2013/N205

ODM: Do not be complacent this hurricane season; TS Chantal was a warning to be prepared

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The third storm of the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season Tropical Storm (TS) Chantal passed well south of the country on Tuesday and posed no threat to Sint Maarten.

However, the Office of Disaster Management (ODM) is appealing to residents not to let their guard down, preparedness pays off, do not be complacent. 

The Eastern Caribbean island chain will see an increase in the formation of tropical wave systems coming off the coast of Africa from now until after mid-October, and these waves have the potential to develop into a tropical storm.

Weather experts have reported that the formation of TS Chantal East of the Eastern Caribbean island chain in early July from a tropical wave that rolled off the coast of Africa has been described as an uncommon occurrence.

The formation of the third storm of the season based on historical records by the National Hurricane Center out of Miami usually occurs around mid-August.

ODM is calling on the Sint Maarten community to view the formation and passing of TS Chantal through the Caribbean as a reminder that they should not become complacent and to make sure everybody has everything in place and are storm ready. 

Home owners and business operators must take the required actions to minimize the risk of injury and damage to property in case there is a hurricane strike, and the time to act is now if you haven’t already.   

Being prepared is essential prior to a hurricane strike.  Businesses and government must survive and recover from a disaster as quick as possible which would ensure that the economy can be up and running and our way of life returns to normal.

Remember, it only takes one to make this a bad hurricane season for the country.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com, roddy.heyliger at sintmaartengov.org; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I. Tel. +1 721 543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Monday, July 08, 2013/N204-9.45PM

ODM advises residents to monitor government and weather reports as Tropical Storm Chantal approaches island chain; Additional watches and warnings may be issued for Leeward Islands

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) continues to closely monitor the progress of the third Tropical Storm for the Atlantic hurricane season, Tropical Storm (TS) Chantal.

Based on the 8.00pm advisory of Monday evening, the National Hurricane Center in Miami has indicated that additional watches and warnings could be required for a portion of the Northern Leeward Islands later tonight (Monday). 

ODM will continue to monitor the progress of this fast moving storm and will provide an additional update early Tuesday morning.  The population is advised to monitor government and weather reports for any further updates.

TS Chantal was located on Monday evening at 8.00pm over 300 miles East South East of Barbados.

TS Chantal is forecasted to pass through the Eastern Caribbean island chain early Tuesday morning and throughout the day in the vicinity of the islands of Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia.

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Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; roddy.heyliger at sintmaartengov.org; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release

Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, Government Administrations Building, Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I., Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Monday, July 08, 2013/N040

Minister Lake appraised of country’s preparedness in the event of inclement weather

PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten – The third tropical storm system of the Atlantic hurricane season – Tropical Storm (TS) Chantal - is currently east of the Eastern Caribbean island chain.

TS Chantal is forecasted to pass through the island chain in the vicinity of the islands of St. Lucia, Martinique and Dominica during the course of Tuesday.

Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake met with the management team of Ministry of VROMI on Monday morning to be briefed with respect to the nation’s preparedness in the event of inclement weather.

TS Chantal does not pose a threat to Country Sint Maarten.  The storm is forecasted to pass well south of the country, but the Office of Disaster Management continues to closely monitor the storm system for any possible changes in its forecasted track.

Minister Lake took a proactive approach on Monday after learning about the TS Chantal.  “I was pleased to learn when we went through the checklist with respect to storm pumps and trench cleaning, we are on track and would be able to act very quickly should the need arise.

“I would like to also use this opportunity to call on the Sint Maarten community to make sure they have completed their hurricane season checklist and don’t wait until the last minute because then it will be too late.  Make sure you are prepared for this hurricane season,” Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

Ministry of VROMI is an integral part of the country’s disaster management system as Emergency Support Function (ESF-3).

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; roddy.heyliger at sintmaartengov.org) Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Press Secretary to the:

Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure,

Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunications,

Ministry of Finance

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I. Tel. +1 721 543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Monday, July 08, 2013/N203-9.45AM

ODM says Tropical Storm Chantal Poses No Threat to Country Sint Maarten at this Time

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) has been closely monitoring the progress of the third Tropical Storm for the Atlantic hurricane season, Tropical Storm (TS) Chantal.

Based on the 8.00am advisory, TS Chantal does not pose a threat to country Sint Maarten.

ODM will continue to monitor the progress of this fast moving storm and will provide an additional update later today-Monday.  The population is advised to monitor weather reports for any further updates.

TS Chantal was located on Monday morning at 8.00am over 500 miles East South East of Barbados.

TS Chantal is forecasted to pass through the Eastern Caribbean island chain on Monday evening and Tuesday morning in the vicinity of the islands of Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; roddy.heyliger at sintmaartengov.org; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I. Tel. +1 721 543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Friday, July 05, 2013/N199

Boat owners advised to review hurricane season preparatory plans

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Boat owners are being advised by the Office of Disaster Management to review their hurricane preparatory plans so they can be ready to take action in the event of a storm/hurricane threat to the island during the 2013 hurricane season.

The 2013 hurricane season has already seen two systems form.  With the start of the peak months from mid-August and September up to mid-October approximately five weeks away, preparation is essential in order not to be caught off guard.

The Office of Disaster Management hereby advises mariners to ask themselves, “How have you prepared yourself for the hurricane season?”

Hurricanes have been the cause of many maritime disasters.  Constant monitoring of hurricane potential and continual risk analysis when used with some fundamental guidelines become the basic tools to minimize a hurricanes’ impact to vessels at sea or in port.

Systems that are forecast to make landfall within 50-100 nautical miles of a particular port tend to be more destructive than those that approach the port from over land or parallel the coast in the vicinity of the port.  Also, ports located in the right front quadrant, based on direction of movement of hurricanes during landfall tend to have higher winds, seas, and storm surge.

The decision to leave port for hurricane avoidance must be made very clearly.  Consideration to the latest safe departure time and likely avoidance routes must be balanced with a number of other factors.  Most important of these is time versus distance.

The risk of damage to a vessel at sea increases as the motion of the hurricane increases towards the maximum safe speed of the vessel attempting to leave port in advance of that system. 

Considerations to remain in port during hurricane passage must include an evaluation of the amount of protection afforded by the port.  The direction from which the strongest winds are forecast to blow along with the potential for storm surge must be factored in when deciding whether to seek haven pier side or at anchorage.

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Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; roddy.heyliger at sintmaartengov.org)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Sint Maarten

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten W.I. Tel. +1 721 543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Thursday, June 20, 2013/N184

Coastal residents advised to have plans in place for storm surge flooding

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Coastal residents are advised to have plans in place for possible storm surge in the event of a passing hurricane along the south coast of the country, especially the Beacon Hill area.

According to the Office of Disaster Management, these plans should have been in place since before the start of the hurricane season on June 1.

The season so far has seen two storms form with the last one Barry near or over Mexico.

Property damages that can be expected from hurricanes and coastal flooding have been increasing year by year, and in many places the threat to life is increasing as well, according to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Most coastal communities are vulnerable to one or more different kinds of flooding and related hazards: frequent flooding from storm surge and winds; and storm-caused erosion of bluffs and beaches.

Coastal areas of Sint Maarten are: Beacon Hill, vicinity of the Princess Juliana International Airport road connection to Beacon Hill, Simpson Bay, Pelican, and Philipsburg (along the boardwalk).

In the event of a passing hurricane, homeowners should secure their possessions to upper levels of the structure.  If you decide not to stay in your home, you should make the necessary arrangements before the passing of a hurricane on where you would stay to ride out the storm system.

One should not wait until the last moment to evacuate their home; this should be done before the hurricane arrives.  First responders won’t be able to go out at the height of hurricane force winds to execute a rescue. Rising storm waters can also flood coastal roads, therefore you should leave before.

The most important link in the chain of preparation and response for coastal flooding is you.  Take the necessary measures to prepare your family and home, according to the Office of Disaster Management.

Here is a check list if you have to leave your home before a hurricane strike due to high storm surge that is expected: turn off water and gas; have a radio and spare batteries; a first aid kit; flashlight; spare bedding; bottled water and tinned food; house keys; prescription medicine; cash and credit cards; mobile phone and spare clothing.

Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make it a bad season.  Be prepared!

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Sint Maarten Department of Communication (DCOMM)

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, June 14, 2013

Port ready for forecasted

Busy hurricane season

POINT BLANCHE, St. Maarten – Port of St. Maarten – The Port of St. Maarten is ready for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season.  A meeting has already taken place to discuss the plan of action for this season.  All stakeholders meet annually to prepare for the season in order to make sure that all necessary actions are taken to protect the Port, one of the pillars of the country’s economy.

All efforts are made by the harbour’s staff and stakeholders to keep the facility open as long as possible and to open back up as soon as possible.  The St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies realize the importance of getting back to business as soon as possible, however, safety is always the primary principle that dictates the actions to be taken.

The port facility is an open harbor, and this means that the effects of waves are felt directly from the open sea. Unfortunately this is why sometimes operations are hampered even when a hurricane passes far away. The waves and swells affect ships trying to stay alongside the pier. The ships roll too much for the cranes to safely offload the cargo, and passengers cannot disembark and embark safely.

The dangers of damage to the ship and piers must also be taken into consideration. Operations must then wait for seas to subside to allow for the ships to berth safely. Ships have to deviate when a hurricane is in their path or route. The effects can be; cargoes being delayed and cruise ships going to other ports. Ships agents have their hands full as the cargo’s that are rerouted have to now also be rerouted at times or wait until the next round trip. On the other hand, a hurricane somewhere else may have ships coming to St. Maarten for an unplanned visit.

Depending on severity of a passing hurricane, waves and swell damages can be severe, as water will move earth.

A full assessment is made of the property as soon as weather permits. After the waves and swells subside, which can take some time; it is necessary to survey the seabed for possible debris that can damage a ships bottom or propellers. Underwater structures such as seawalls and pilings are checked for damages in the post-storm period.

The Port receives the input from shops, stevedoring companies, cargo shipping lines as well as the cruise lines, tour operators on land and sea, in preparation for a storm strike.  Many man hours are required to prepare the harbour when a hurricane is on track to pass the island.

Depending on the expected winds, sometimes containers have to be moved and placed so as to avoid or try to minimize damage. The ports large mobile cranes have to be moved to a safe location. The crane booms are lowered so that there is the least effect of wind on them.

Properties must be secured such as signage taken down, awnings removed etc. All structures near the water have to be removed. Some of this equipment is large and cumbersome. Storage areas are designated to allow access and for all equipment to be able to be put back in place as soon as possible once the all clear-sign has been given by the Office of Disaster Management.

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About St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies

The St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies comprises of 13 companies responsible for most of the country’s maritime activities.  The operations of the Harbour Group can be summarized into four pillars of Cruise, Cargo, Yachting and Real Estate.  The Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo facilities cater to over 1.5 million cruise passengers annually.  The cargo facilities have led to a steady growth in containerized business making the island a hub for the North Eastern Caribbean where it concerns transshipment services.  The port caters to the Giga yachts and vessels providing berthing and fueling services to this sector.  The harbor group also owns and manages a wide range of commercial real estate across the country. 

The Port of St. Maarten is a modern, well equipped and secure port facility that is operated and managed by a dedicated professional staff.  Visit our website for further information www.portofstmaarten.com or call +1 721 542-8503 or 8504, email: buzz at portofstmaarten.com

News Release

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. +1-721-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Thursday, June 13, 2013/N170

Facility Management advises Seven Government Ministries to be prepared to take Action to Secure Offices and Documents

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Hurricane are not to be taken lightly. The Department of Facility Management from the Ministry of General Affairs last week informed the Government apparatus with respect to what measures need to be taken to secure records, files and equipment.

The seven Government Ministries have been requested to take the following measures: store records/files in waterproof cabinets and/or in dry and ventilated areas; remove all electrical equipment from the floor; in the event of a storm threat, put computers on top of your desk and cover them up; and make sure all electrical equipment is turned off before leaving your workplace.

Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon, Head of the Island’s Office of Disaster Management, says the nation must be prepared, because every hurricane is different.

“Based on several forecasts that have come out from different entities prior to the start of the season, for the six-month hurricane season that kicked off two weeks ago, the forecast calls for an active or extremely active season.  The first Tropical Storm of the season, Andrea formed last week.

“Preparedness pays off, do not be complacent. For those who have already gone through the hurricane experience, use lessons learned from past storms and anticipate as well as you can. For new residents, get advice from neighbors and friends, and follow government preparatory advisory notices in the weekly Government Information Page. It is never too early to prepare,” Disaster Coordinator Salomon said on Thursday.

Storm names for the 2013 season are: Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The 2013 hurricane season runs through November 30.

# # #

Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 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. +1-721-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Thursday, June 06, 2013/N161

Ministry VROMI busy with lowering water in ponds, waterway hard-surfacing, trench cleaning and district clean-up

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Head of the Infrastructure Management Department of the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure Claudius Buncamper, Emergency Support Function (ESF-3) says that his department is working on several fronts in preparation for the Atlantic hurricane season.

Two out of three of the storm water management pumps in Philipsburg are fully operational.  The third smaller pump has a hydraulic leak and technicians are working to repair it.

Lowering water levels in the ponds are on-going and has been taking place from 7.00pm to 3.00am.  Every effort will be made not to open the Great Bay Channel this season especially now with the storm pumps in place and fully operational.

The pumps have the capacity to lower the water levels in the ponds by six inches per day running 24 hours.  Buncamper added that the Ministry has an excellent working relationship with the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS) where they receive additional weather related reports/advisories especially where it concerns anticipated heavy and consistent rainfall. 

“Once the Ministry receives a lead time of 72 hours that inclement weather is expected, we are able to turn on the pumps and lower water levels within a relatively short period of time in anticipation of the additional rainfall,” Buncamper pointed out.

The Ministry has also embarked upon a pre-clean-up exercise in the districts of Beacon Hill, Simpson Bay and Cole Bay, and other districts will follow.  The schedule of the clean-up is published in the Government Information Page in both daily newspapers.  Residents should take note of the dates and check their yards and surroundings and clean-up in preparation for what is expected to be a busy hurricane season.

With respect to waterways, trenches and drains, these are being readied.  Buncamper says that hard-surfacing of the main drains are currently taking place and is an on-going affair.

Civil works is continuing on the Coralita Road with crews working 12 hours a day seven days a week to complete a 400 meter stretch by the end of July.

Work on trenches will start soon and all trench cleaning would be completed prior to the beginning of the busiest part of the hurricane season at the end of July.   

The landfill is not an issue and contractors are already in place to carry out post-storm clean-up operations.

Buncamper reminds the populace that the hurricane season has begun and the first named storm of the season is currently impacting the U.S. State of Florida, which is a vehement reminder that you have to be prepared and to finalize preparations in the coming weeks in the event of a hurricane strike.  Remember, it only takes one hurricane strike to make it a bad season.

ESF-3 is part of the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) that forms the country’s disaster management system.  The ESFs are the first response team in the event of a national disaster.

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The 2013 hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.

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Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 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. +1-721-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net or dcomm at sintmaartengov.org; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Monday, June 03, 2013/N153

St. Maarten Weather Services to issue storm watches and warnings for the first time; Police traffic circulation plans in place;

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Some of the reports received from the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) at last week’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) meeting about the country’s disaster management system reveals that more than a majority of preparations are in place for the passing of a hurricane.

The Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS) ESF-10 will be issuing for the first time tropical storm/hurricane watches and warnings without any assistance from the Curacao Met Services.

The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, and Transportation & Telecommunications (ESF-10) is busy compiling a list of food items – price freeze - in order to prevent price gouging prior and after a hurricane strike.

The Department of Communication (DCOMM) (ESF-8) which is responsible for public information and media is also ready for the season.  DCOMM currently has an on-going public awareness campaign to remind residents about being prepared for what is forecast to be an extremely busy season.

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour (ESF-6) has been mobilized and will be meeting with a number of stakeholders this week with respect to their preparations for the season. 

The Fire Department (ESF-4) is prepared and ready to roll out to assist in an emergency situation.

The Power Utility Company GEBE (ESF-1) reported that they are prepared for the season.  Major generator overhauls have been completed no major preventative maintenance is necessary during the season. 

Any open trenches where work is being carried out by the company will be closed in the event of the passing of a hurricane.

GEBE will do everything to keep the electricity on, however, if conditions reach a certain level, for the safety of the equipment and if there are downed power lines, the plant will be shut down.

The Department of Social Services (ESF-7) is in the process with several other government agencies to carry out an assessment of hurricane shelters for the season.  The department will also commence shortly with an information campaign with respect to the shelter usage and what you can take to a shelter.

The Police Force (ESF-5) is assessing their buildings and already has in place a traffic circulation plan.

Also present during the EOC/ESF meeting last week Thursday was the Adjudant to the Governor’s Cabinet and a representative from the Cabinet of the Prime Minister (ESF-9).

Storm names for the 2013 season are: Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The 2013 hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.

PHOTO CUTLINE: L to R, Paul Martens, Head of Section Disaster Management and Fire Chief/National Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon.  DCOMM Photo

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Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Sint Maarten Department of Communication (DCOMM)

Department of Communication (DCOMM), Ennia Bldg., Longwall Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten D.W.I. Tel. +1-721-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Friday, May 31, 2013/N149

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon, Head of the Island’s Office of Disaster Management, chaired the first assessment meeting on Thursday of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC)/Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) in the conference room at the Fire & Ambulance Building in Cay Hill.

Preliminary reports from the 10 ESFs indicate that more than the majority of them have provisions in place for the season and are considered ready for any weather eventuality.

The Office of Disaster Management reminds the community to be prepared this hurricane season, and it only takes one to make it a bad season.

Storm names for the 2013 season are: Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The 2013 hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.

PHOTO CUTLINE: Members of the Emergency Support Functions in the conference room on Thursday in the Emergency Operations Center meeting discussing preparations for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season.  DCOMM Photo

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Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 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. +1-721-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, May 29, 2013/N147

Disaster Coordinator Salomon commends Cole Bay clean-up initiative in preparation for hurricane season; NOAA forecast extremely active season

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon, Head of the Island’s Office of Disaster Management, would like to commend the clean-up initiative that was undertaken by the Community Police and Jazz G and O.C.C.O. of the Cole Bay district in preparation for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season that opens on Saturday, June 1.

The first clean-up took place on May 18.  Another clean-up is planned for Saturday, June 8 along Welfare Road, Windsor Road, and Cay Bay Road from 6.30am to 2.30pm.

The final clean-up will be on Saturday, June 15 on Welfare Road, Corner Road and Bill Folly Road.  Those persons interested in volunteering their time to help with the community district clean-up should call 588-4035 or 550-7747.  The removal of garbage is being carried out by Leonard Enterprises.

“These types of initiatives are very much welcome, and I am calling on all the districts to mobilize and clean-up.  We need to see similar initiatives in the other residential districts.  We need all stakeholders working together,” Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon said on Wednesday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the United States Department of Commerce (NOAA) released its forecast for the upcoming six-month hurricane season, and the forecast calls for an active or extremely active season this year.

The NOAA forecast says there is a likelihood of 13 to 20 named storms, of which seven to 11 could become hurricanes, including three to six major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5) with winds of 111 miles per hour or higher.

“I am once more appealing to the Sint Maarten community to prepare for the hurricane season.  We do this every year and more than the majority of the country knows exactly what they have to do before the hurricane season starts.

“The Office of Disaster Management always prepare for every season regardless of the forecast, because we all must remember that all it takes is one storm to make it a bad season,” Disaster Coordinator Salomon said on Wednesday.    

Storm names for the 2013 season are: Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The 2013 hurricane season runs through November 30.

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Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 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. +1-721-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, May 14, 2013/N141

Disaster Coordinator Salomon to chair first EOC meeting in preparation for hurricane season; Reminds nation to continue to make preparations

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon, Head of the Island’s Disaster Emergency Management Organization, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), will be chairing a meeting of the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) next week in preparation for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season that starts on June 1st.

Salomon also uses this opportunity reminding the nation to continue to make preparations for the upcoming hurricane season and to do so in a timely manner.  Forecasters have predicted a busy hurricane season ahead, and Disaster Coordinator Salomon points out that it only takes one hurricane to hit the country to make it a bad season.

Some of the key preparations are Family Plan which should be based on your vulnerability to Hurricane Hazards that could affect your family such as storm surge or flooding.  By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster.

Every home should have a Disaster Supply Kit which would contain certain items you need to have regardless of where you ride out a hurricane.

Family Disaster Plan

Locate a safe room or the safest areas in your home for each hurricane hazard; Determine escape routes from your home as certain areas could be inundated by flooding and storm surge especially low lying areas and along the coasts; Make a plan now on what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate; Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call; Check your insurance coverage; Stock non-perishable emergency supplies.

Disaster Supply Kit

Water, at least one gallon daily per person for three to seven days; Food, at least enough for three to seven days, non-perishable packaged or canned/juices, foods for infants or the elderly, snack foods, non-electric opener, cooking tools/fuel, paper plates/plastic utensils; Blankets/Pillows; Clothing (rain coat, sturdy shoes); First Aid Kit/Medicines/Prescription Drugs; Special items for babies and the elderly; Toiletries/Hygiene items/Moisture wipes; Flashlight and batteries; Battery operated radio; Fully charged cell phone with an extra battery; Cash/Credit Cards; Toys/Books/Games; Important documents should be put in a waterproof container; Tools; Vehicle fuel tanks should be filled a few days before a hurricane strike; Pet care items (medication, amply supply of food and water, a carrier or cage, a muzzle and leash).

Storm names for the 2013 season are: Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The 2013 hurricane season runs through November 30.

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Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 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. +1-721-543-1162, 542-4119, Fax: 543-1169; Email: gis at sintmaarten.net; Website: www.sintmaartengov.org

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, May 14, 2013/N133

Disaster Coordinator Salomon calls on nation to prepare for 2013 Atlantic hurricane season; Forecasters say busy season ahead

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon, Head 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 2013 Atlantic hurricane season, and to have the necessary plans in place by June 1^st, the start of the season.

Colorado State University hurricane team Phil Klotzbach and William Gray have forecasted in their early April report enhanced activity for the hurricane season with 18 named storms, of which nine will become hurricanes, and four of those will become major hurricanes with over 111 miles per hour winds. 

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

The Disaster Coordinator added that the country’s disaster preparedness and emergency management mechanism are expected to be ready to deal with any eventuality arising during the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season.

“As we do for every hurricane season, preparing for a storm strike is necessary.  Remember it only takes one to make it a bad hurricane season.  I am calling on the nation to begin to prepare now, so as to mitigate the effects of a possible hurricane disaster. We have the time now to prepare our homes, businesses and other structures adequately in the event of a hurricane strike. 

“Check your disaster plan and review 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,” Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon said on Tuesday.

Some of the preparations that should be carried out now are checking hurricane shutters and the roof of your home or business, and to make sure windows and shutters close securely.

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 which could cause flood challenges. 

The 2013 hurricane season officially runs through November 30 and begins June 1st.

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Roddy Heyliger (Email/Blackberry: roddyheyliger at gmail.com; Cells: +1 721 520-4217, 581-6323)

Sint Maarten Department of Communication (DCOMM)