Initial Assessment: Saturday

Published 30th August, 9:41am

Key Message:

Gustav, now a category 3 hurricane, is strengthening as it moves away from the Cayman Islands. The storm will continue to affect Grand Cayman for at least five hours. Grand Cayman is still experiencing heavy winds, with strong gusts, and waves with heights of 14 to 16 feet. Crews have already begun initial damage assessments and debris clearance. Residents should remain indoors for their own safety but also to facilitate assessment and cleanup.

Little Cayman

• A number of light poles are down. Some are described as "cracked in half".
• Trees were also toppled by the hurricane.
• Several docks are reported destroyed.
• Several boats have been washed ashore.
• Debris clutters the roads making them difficult to pass.
• As the storm was approaching, a couple was treated by the nurse after being washed into the sea. They had been on a dock taking photographs. Other than these two, there are no reported injuries at this time.
• Damage to the Southern Cross Club has been reported.

Cayman Brac

A number of light poles are reported down.

Grand Cayman

• During the night, an East End shelter lost generator power.
• A great deal of debris was washed ashore near The Edge in North Side.
• There are many reports coming into the NEOC of downed trees, including one that fell on a shelter warden's car. Fallen trees blocking main roads will have priority for cleanup.

For further information contact: Susan Watler