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by pltm
(PLTM) - One of the lessons learnt from this hurricane season is to not take climate change for granted, according to Premier Hon. Dr. D. Orlando Smith.
He told reporters that the BVI is in a vulnerable state as it prepares for Hurricane Maria, lamenting the conditions of the island in wake of Hurricane Irma.
"We have learnt some lessons in that we cannot take climate change for granted…Hurricane Irma was the strongest hurricane for the season...This hurricane season is very serious so we have to be prepared as much as can," he said.
This week, Sir Richard Branson, who was also affected by Hurricane Irma, spoke about the effects of climate change.
"Having just gone through one of the strongest hurricanes in history, I’ve seen first-hand the impact climate change is having. Even as the world faces increasingly shocking climate change-related catastrophes, now is our opportunity to get on top of the problem before it’s too late," he related.
Speaking about Hurricane Maria, Branson said that the people of the BVI and Caribbean, who have been absolutely devastated by Irma, are now bracing themselves for another terrible hurricane.
"Our team are doing everything we can to help people on the ground to prepare, and aid efforts are continuing. The spirit of the British Virgin Islands is as strong as ever and the support from people around the world is incredible. However, there could be even more catastrophic damage for people who have already lost their homes and their livelihoods," he lamented.
Sir Richard said, these hurricanes are causing unimaginable destruction; in the BVI infrastructure has collapsed, "but we are working hard with some incredible partners, from the Royal Marines to aid agencies, the Puerto Rican authorities to the local BVIslanders, to help get the islands back on their feet."
He restated that his thoughts are turning to working with others to help create a long-term Marshall Plan for the BVI, and for the Caribbean to reconstructed and rejuvenated with clean energy and new jobs.
"However, as they prepare for another hurricane, the BVI’s people need the world's attention now."
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