by Linda Straker
- Government offices in Carriacou and Petite Martinique close today at 2 pm
- Early closure to facilitate necessary preparations as Tropical Storm Dorian approaches
In anticipation of the northern part of the island being affected more severely by the passage of Tropical Storm Dorian, the Government of Grenada has given the approval for all government offices in the Grenadine islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique to be closed at 2 pm today Monday, 26 August.
Grenada and its dependencies are under Tropical Storm Watch. St Vincent and the Grenadines, which govern the rest of the Grenadine islands, are under Tropical Storm Warning.
“The early closure is to facilitate the necessary preparations as Tropical Storm Dorian approaches the islands. We apologise for any inconvenience caused,” said a news release from the Ministry of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs. The release called on residents of the islands to take action that will safeguard lives and property from the potential impact of the storm.
The National Disaster Management Agency (NaDAM) District Committee for Carriacou and Petite Martinique announced that 3 emergency shelters — 1 on Petite Martinique and 2 on Carriacou — will be activated as of 4 pm.
The National Weather Center describes Dorian as a small tropical cyclone and tropical-storm-force winds only extend outward up to 45 miles (75 km) from the centre. Some strengthening is forecast during the next few days, and Dorian could be near hurricane strength when it passes through the northern Windward Islands on Tuesday. Maximum sustained winds are near 60 mph (95 km/h) with higher gusts.
Stay safe
Prayers for all citizens of the islands that will be affected.