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by pltm
(PLTM) - Governor Gus Jaspert is encouraging residents to stock up on food and water, for at least three days, as Hurricane Maria nears the BVI. The BVI is now under a Hurricane Watch.
"I urge you to do all you can now to prepare for the passage of Maria. Please stock up on food and water for at least three days, and secure a safe area in your home or other place of shelter. Individuals in low-lying areas, high hillsides, or close to ghuts should consider moving," he said in a statement on Sunday, September 17.
He said that based on the forecast, the center of Maria will move across the Leeward Islands Monday night and could pass close to the British Virgin Islands on Tuesday or Wednesday as a major Hurricane.
Currently, forecasters expect storm force winds to affect the Territory potentially causing gusty winds and flooding.
"These winds could potentially turn remaining debris from Hurricane Irma into projectiles. I encourage you to secure any loose items around property and to also volunteer your services in your community to speed up the debris management and ongoing ghut clearing activities. "
The Governor said that they need all members of the community coming together to assist.
Governor Jaspert stated that fast tracking the ghut and debris clearing process is critical, as Maria is also expected to produce total rainfall accumulations of 6 to 12 inches with isolated maximum amounts of 20 inches across the British Virgin Islands.
"To enable public works to accelerate the clearing of debris, in consultation with the Premier and Cabinet, I am extending the curfew from 6:00 p.m. on Monday September 18 until the all clear is given. Please remain off the roads during this period."
The Governor noted that military and police will also remain in the Virgin Islands to ensure the security of all islanders, and will still be on island once the storm has passed to keep us safe and assist with relief and recovery.
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