Ghuts, drains being cleaned for hurricane season

Works Minister Kye Rymer has announced that the Public Works Department has been deployed to comprehensively prepare and clear ghuts and drains across the territory, in preparation for what is forecast to be one of the busiest hurricane seasons on record.

Minister Rymer said the cleaning of ghuts and drains is crucial in mitigating potential flooding and damage from heavy rains during hurricanes. As the cleaning programme gets underway, residents are being urged to properly dispose of waste, stating that in the past, maintenance teams have found mattresses, washing machines, palettes and other debris in the ghuts.

“As we approach another hurricane season, it is crucial that we remain vigilant and prepared. This year’s Atlantic Hurricane Season is already proving to be an active one, as evidenced by the flash floods experienced in early May. These events have served as a wake-up call, alerting us to the areas that require immediate attention to mitigate flooding during inclement weather,” Minister Rymer said.

The low maintenance of drains and ghuts have been identified as one of the main problems causing flooding in the territory. The territory’s capital Road Town has been severely affected, causing businesses to resort to sandbags as they try to protect their merchandise from being damaged during heavy rains and flooding.

In the meantime, Minister Rymer urged residents to take proactive steps to ensure their family’s safety and the well-being of their communities.

“We encourage you to familiarise yourself with your neighbourhood, identify persons within your respective communities who may require assistance, and plan alternate routes to and from your home. It is also essential to have emergency contact numbers readily available.

Residents are also encouraged to stay informed and up-to-date on weather systems by downloading mobile applications such as the Disaster Preparedness app, following the government’s official Facebook page and website, and tuning in to local and regional radio stations.

Forecasters at the Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project are warning that the Caribbean and the United States will likely see above-average levels of storm activity during the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season.

Some 23 named storms are projected throughout the season, which ends November 30. Eleven hurricanes are expected to form, and of those, five are expected to develop into major hurricanes of Category 3 strength or stronger.