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Paloma Update: 2:00 pm, 8 November

Published 8th November, 2:02pm

From Hazard Management Cayman Islands' Joint Communications Service

Hurricane Paloma Update: 2:00 pm Saturday, 8 November 2008

Key messages:

  1. Automatic weather stations are now showing wind speeds of 20-25 mph at Cayman Brac's Gerrard Smith International Airport. However, bands of heavier and tropical storm force winds could occur into this afternoon. A HURRICANE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FOR THE SISTER ISLANDS.

  2. Some injuries have been reported on the Sister Islands, but so far no deaths.

  3. Early reports from the Sister Islands indicate loss of roofs, structural damage to small buildings, and an inundated airport runway. Further damage assessments are ongoing by the Sister Islands Emergency Committee.

  4. The National Executive, including HE the Governor, Leader of Government Business, the Chief Secretary and other senior officials, met this morning (Saturday, 8 November) to discuss early response to the Sister Islands.

  5. The Support Services Cluster of the NEOC is currently mobilizing resources in conjunction with HMCI. This cluster includes private and voluntary sectors from the Grand Cayman community.

  6. The RFA Wave Ruler is currently on route to the Sister Islands to provide initial assistance.

  7. The "All Clear" for Grand Cayman ONLY was issued at 7 a.m. Over Grand Cayman today, winds will remain northwesterly at 15-25 mph with higher gusts. Heavy wave action on the north and west coasts will continue through tonight.

Advice to local population:

  1. All shelters on Grand Cayman have closed, although the Bodden Town Community Centre is open to area residents whose homes were flooded.

  2. Power has been fully restored at the Owen Roberts International Airport and flights have resumed. Passengers should check with their airlines for flight information.

  3. Grand Cayman experienced only minimal damage.

  4. All generators, regardless of size, must be operated outside.

  5. RCIPS officers are on patrol on Grand Cayman. Criminality will be dealt with robustly.

  6. Any sand washed onto the roads should not be removed for personal use.

  7. All residents should stay tuned to local news media for updates.

Storm position:

  1. At 1.00 p.m. Paloma, still a category four hurricane was located near 20.2 N and 78.8 W, or 73 miles northeast of Cayman Brac.

  2. Paloma is moving east-northeast near 9 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph.

The next JCS bulletin will be issued by 7 p.m. today.

For further information contact: Kenisha Morgan