Storm Watch: Don’t take TS Dorian lightly- Minister Hinkson

Minister of Home Affairs Edmund Hinkson is urging Barbadians to continue with their preparations for Tropical Storm Dorian, saying it is not a system “to be taken lightly”.

Hinkson made the comments today as he addressed a media briefing to update the public about the approaching storm, which is expected to affect Barbados tonight.

He told the media: “We need everyone to continue their preparations. We still have a few hours to prepare in terms of our safety and that of our families. Your physical safety is of primary importance because we do not want any loss of life in this system.”

The Minister urged members of the public to ensure that their surroundings are secure. He stressed that they should make sure that there were no potential missiles on their property.

He emphasized that Government was doing everything possible to ensure the safety of Barbadians. “We can’t stop the storm from coming, but we have a duty to ensure we are as prepared as possible and that our people are as safe as possible.

“We cannot do it by ourselves though, we need you to ensure your safety. If you are living in a house that may be vulnerable, it is best to go to a relative who has a more secure house. Even those who stay at home should identify a room you can go into which can be a shelter, in case the worse that can be contemplated at this stage takes place,” he stated.

Meteorologist of the Barbados Meteorological Services, Wayne McGeary, said the system was showing signs of better organization and as it came closer to the island, there was potential for further intensification.

McGeary continued: “The entire island is potentially susceptible to the strongest winds within this system…. We can get hurricane force gusts, so we need to really take this system seriously and take all the necessary precautions and make sure life and property are protected.”

Meanwhile, all category one shelters and three category two schools, namely St Ambrose Primary, Westbury Primary and People’s Cathedral, have already been opened. (BGIS)