Cayman Outside the Tropical Storm-Force Band - But the Worst Marine Conditions are Not Yet Over
Published 20th October, 12:20pm
At 10:00 AM Thursday (20 October) Wilma was some 276 miles west south-west of Grand Cayman, just outside the band of tropical storm force winds which now extend some 260 miles from the centre. So while conditions will continue to improve, especially along the east and south coasts, Grand Cayman will continue to see very rough seas along the western coast line. Squally weather is also expected to continue, with two to three inches of rain expected over the next 24 to 48 hours.
As a result of this continuing picture of severe weather, the Ministry of Education has taken the decision that all government schools, including the University College, should remain closed on Friday (21 October), and the NHC has issued advisories for road travel over the next 24 hours, particularly along portions of West Bay Road. Private school interests should contact their respective schools directly for information on tomorrow's situation.
With the shift to the western shores in the next 24-36 hours, the rough sea conditions will be concentrated more along the West Bay Beach strip, which will experience huge battering waves of some eight to 10 feet in height. Particularly vulnerable properties on the west Bay Beach are urged to take suitable precautions from likely intrusion of sea water.
Motorists on the West Bay Road should expect that tomorrow they will continue to be diverted at Indies Suite through Governor's Harbour. Otherwise, the West Bay Road should remain passable, though motorists should anticipate unusual delays.
At mid-morning Thursday, a section of road in the Savannah area east of Domino's Pizza continued to be affected by salt water flooding.
THE CURRENT RESTRICTION IN THE SAVANNAH AREA TO EMERGENCY-ONLY TRIPS REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
While road conditions on the eastern and southern side will gradually start to improve over the next 24 hours, the public is advised that controls will be maintained ensure that the flooded area does not become blocked with stalled vehicles. Accordingly, persons wishing to travel through this area should monitor the local media reports and continue to be extremely cautious. Substantial delays should be expected.
Individuals experiencing deteriorating conditions such as flooding over the next 24 hours and requiring assistance should call 9-1-1 for directions. Shelters are in readiness in event some residents may need to be re-located, though this has so far not been necessary.
All government teachers should report to their respective schools tomorrow, as well.
Meanwhile, schools on the Sister Islands continue regular classes. Government offices and the business sector should continue to return to regular conditions.
NHC Chairman Donnie Ebanks continued to appeal to employers to be sensitive to both weather conditions and the fact that Grand Cayman's schools will be closed. Employers should be aware that with schools being closed, there will be additional strain on employees to meet their dual responsibilities as parents and employees.
He also urges employees to make every effort to be as responsible as possible in managing these conflicting demands.
The Tropical Storm warning and Hurricane watch which was in place for the past several days was lifted at 1:00pm yesterday (Wednesday). In view of the current Severe Weather Advisory issued by our National Weather Service, the public should continue to closely monitor weather information through the local media.
NHC advice to local population:
Cayman Islands residents are advised to regularly monitor bulletins at www.gov.ky or www.CaymanPrepared.ky
Details of Weather System at 10:00am, Thursday, 20 October:
Longitude: 85.5W
Latitude: 18.4N
Proximity: 259 miles west-southwest of Grand Cayman
Minimal Central Pressure: 910 MB
Speed of system and direction of movement: maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 145mph, with higher gusts. Hurricane Wilma is currently rated a dangerous Category 4 hurricane, moving west-northwest near 7 mph. Some re-strengthening is expected during the next 24 hours.
Hurricane force winds extend out up to 90 miles, with tropical storm force winds reaching out up to 276 miles from the centre.
For further information contact: Pat Ebanks