As you are aware, Irma is predicted to impact the Territory as a Category 4 hurricane on Wednesday afternoon into the evening as the system moves across the BVI.

The projected path places the eye very close to Anegada and we are therefore concerned about the level of impact the system could have on the island and individuals there.

It is expected that storm surge from this event can range from 10 to 14 feet or higher.  

Given that Anegada is a low-lying island it is therefore vulnerable to storm surge which has the potential to cause significant damage along the coastline and properties within the affected area.

Residents and individuals on Anegada are being asked to consider leaving the island and to find safe shelter with family and friends on other nearby islands. 

Arrangements are being made by the Government of the Virgin Islands with Speedy’s and Road Town Fast Ferries to transport persons who wish to relocate from Anegada to Virgin Gorda or Tortola. 

These Ferries will leave Anegada at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, September 5.

Individuals who don’t have family members on Tortola or Virgin Gorda can be accommodated at emergency shelters on these islands.

On Virgin Gorda, the Catholic Community Centre in the Valley and the Methodist Church in North Sound will open to receive persons.

Persons wishing to stay on Tortola can be accommodate in St. George’s Anglican Church Hall in Road Town, the New Testament Church of God in Baugher’s Bay, East End Community Centre or West End Community Centre.   

Individuals who choose to seek temporary accommodation on Tortola or Virgin Gorda at Emergency Shelters must inform the District Officer, Mrs. Shirley Vanterpool of their intentions so that arrangements can be made for them. 

Please ensure that you have essential supplies (an emergency kit well stocked with water, batteries, battery-operated radio, flashlights, medications and non-perishable food items) for at least three days.

The Claudia Creque Educational Centre on Anegada will also be opened to accommodate persons who wish to remain on the island.   This facility will be managed by the Anegada Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) headed by Melanie Faulkner-Smith.