VITEMA outlines hurricane and heat preparations at June 5 Government House briefing

At a Government House press briefing on June 5, officials urged U.S. Virgin Islands residents to prepare for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season and take precautions during a period of high heat.

VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen said St. Croix had recorded a heat index of 105 degrees and that heat indices across the territory were expected to reach 108 degrees during the week. He relayed Health Department guidance advising residents to limit outdoor exposure between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, seek air conditioning, and check on elderly relatives.

Jaschen said the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast 12 to 17 named storms during the 2023 season, including five to nine hurricanes. He said residents should inspect their homes, including storm shutters, roof conditions and flood risks from heavy rain and rain bands.

He said congregate and medical special-needs evacuation shelters had been readied on St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John. The shelters listed were Lockhart School, the Eudora Kean High School gymnasium and cafeteria on St. Thomas; Educational Complex and D.C. Canegata ballpark on St. Croix; and the Adrian Senior Center on St. John. Water Island residents needing to evacuate were directed to shelter on St. Thomas.

Officials said shelter registration through the Department of Human Services would be available from June 12 through June 16 at 340-715-6935.

At the briefing, Communications Director Richard Motta Jr. also said residents could use the Service Now platform at omb.vi.gov to establish eligibility for $500 Social Security stipends.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/usvi-residents-urged-to-make-necessary-preparations-as-2023-atlantic-hurricane-season-begins/