Storm Watch 2011

JUNE 26, 2011

20-PAGEFEATURE FEATURE 20-PAGE JUNE26, 26,2011 2011 JUNE

STORM STORM WATCH WATCH 2011 2011

SUNDAY SUN. 1

2. SUNDAY SUN. SPECIAL

JUNE 26, 2011

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Department of Emergency Management: 438-7575 Fire Department: 311 Queen Elizabeth Hospital: 436-6450 Sandy Crest Medical Centre: 419-4911 Ambulance Service: 511 Barbados Light and Power Company Limited: 436-900 Barbados Water Authority: 434-4292 Police (Emergency): 211

by ANMARIE BAILEY JUNE 1 marked the beginning of the 2011 Atlantic-basin hurricane season, one that is predicted to be a-more-activethan-average season.

Earlier in the year, noted hurricane expert William Gray along Phil Klotzbach predicted the six-month hurricane season would produce 17 named storms, nine hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), five of which were expected to be between Category 3 to 5, with sustained winds of 111 mph or greater.

A second set of predictions released earlier this month have stayed in the same vein, calling for: Nine hurricanes, as opposed to the average 5.9; 16 named storms (average is 9.6); with 80 named storm days, versus the average 49.1 days.

Thirty-five hurricane days are predicted; the average is 24.5, and five major (Category 3-4-5) hurricanes, while the average is 2.3.

Ten major hurricane days are predicted, versus the average 5.0, due mainly “favourable atmospheric and oceanic conditions in the tropical Atlantic (warmer) waters” and a predicted lack

• • •

of El Niño conditions this year, meaning La Niña conditions are expected to prevail.

La Niña conditions tend to reduced wind shear, which allows more hurricanes to develop, leading to an above active season.

The scientific-team, headed more by Klotzbach in recent years, has been accurate in its past predictions. Last year the outlook called for 18 named storms, 10 hurricanes and five major hurricanes; 19 named storms, 12 hurricanes and five major hurricanes developed.

With this above-average outlook, it is imperative that Barbadians prepare, taking all the necessary precautions. rapidly, and are unpredictable.

As Tropical Storm While Gray’s forecasts can Tomas showed last year, weather systems can develop only suggest the number of

systems likely, they do not predict landfall, making preparedness crucial.

The naming of storms THE National Hurricane Center (NHC) has compiled lists of tropical storm names that have been in use since 1953.

Initially the lists only utilised women's names, but have been alternating with men's names since 1979.

According to the NHC, six lists of

names are used in rotation, so the list of 2011 hurricane names is the same as in 2005, with a few exceptions.

Devastating hurricanes are retired from the list, so this year Dennis is replaced with Don, Katrina with Katia, Rita with

Rina, Stan with Sean, and Wilma with Whitney.

The 2011 Atlantic Hurricane names are: Arlene Bret Cindy Don Emily Franklin Gert Harvey

Irene Jose Katia Lee Maria Nate Ophelia Philippe Rina Sean Tammy Vince Whitney

THIS 20-page LEAVING a trail of destruction Storm in his wake last year, Tropical Watch feature Storm Tomas unleashed his was compiled by fury on Barbados, giving many Barbadians a sobering reality Senior Writer check. (FP) Cheryl Harewood.

LAYOUT AND DESIGN: Deputy Business Manager Lyle Jones and Sub-Editor Julia S. Haynes.

PICTURES: Rawle Cubard, Nigel Browne and Carlos Atwell.

ADVERTISING SALES: Advertising Sales Executives Adrian Bowen and Kelly Johnally.

JUNE 26, 2011

SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 3

by THERESA BLACKMAN “JUNE TOO SOON, July stand by, August a must, September remember, and October all over”.

This popular expression, once uttered by both children and adults to signal the arrival of the hurricane season, no longer holds true given today’s unpredictable climate conditions. With Barbados and the rest of the region experiencing increased hurricane activity and severe flooding, not to mention other global phenomena, this particular period should no longer be taken lightly.

As a result of the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Tomas in October last year, Barbadians have been advised “to take hurricane preparation seriously and get ready for any eventuality”.

This strong message has come from programme officer at the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), Simon Alleyne, who stressed that Barbadians need to take steps to prepare themselves during this hurricane season, as this country is prone to be affected by any type of tropical storm or hurricane.

“The habit of most Barbadians is to wait until June to start to prepare for the season but we at the Department of Emergency Management don’t want that, as we want persons to have a whole idea of disaster preparedness throughout the year. We want individuals to assess their home, make arrangements to have large trees on their properties cut, and [also] to try and keep the drains in front of their respective homes clear, so as to reduce flooding,” he underlined.

Although Tomas battered the island as a tropical storm, it went on to wreak havoc in the neighbouring islands of St. Vincent and St. Lucia as a Category 2 hurricane.

According to the DEM officer, despite regular notifications

situation with downed power lines that may still be active.

They may shock persons, so that is very important to note,” he indicated.

Emphasising that the strength of every home was the roof, Simon noted that its weakness could compromise the whole structure.

“People need to assess their roofs first of all. One of the Barbadians still seemed to be taking the message rather lightly. biggest culprits undermining a roof is termites and that’s why....

“Most persons sometimes wait until the last minute to go you should see if rafters or parts of the roof are still stable to the gas station or to the various supermarkets to buy and not termite infested. Persons sometimes used scotch-tape goods and supplies. Their fridge may already be pretty well stocked with food and yet they go to the supermarket to buy to put on the windows to stop the glass from shattering. The more food, which most of the time requires refrigeration. That best thing is to have shutters made for your home, preferably plywood. Once you store these shutters properly they will last always poses a problem,” he said. for every hurricane season.

Another common mistake, Alleyne pointed out, was that “Another thing too, is the drains in front of your home. individuals venture outside thinking that once there is a lull in the storm, or the eye of the storm has passed over, they could People need to clear the drains at least once a month, especially leading up to the hurricane season so they would go outdoors.

“They can lose their lives, or they could be harmed by flying not be a build-up of debris. We, at the Department of Emergency Management advise the public that if a drain is in debris. During the passing of the eye it becomes calm, but front of your property or a well is not too far away — clear quite suddenly the wind can start to blow hard. Although the grill of the well to allow the water [free flow]. This simple persons would have heard an “All Clear”, they don’t go out act could prevent severe blockage and ultimately flooding,” he with caution. For example, they don’t wear proper boots or emphasised. (BGIS) shoes and, as a result, they can get sick or you may have a

4. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL.

JUNE 26, 2011

When a hurricane threatens THE HURRICANE SEASON began on June 1, and ends on November 30.

Here are some helpful steps which you should take before a Hurricane Watch or Hurricane Warning is announced.

During the Hurricane Season: Check and be certain that your emergency equipment is in good working condition. Have enough supplies for at least two weeks to a month.

Obtain and secure materials to protect your home. Review your insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate insurance coverage. Check to see if it covers wind and storm damage.

Are your structure and contents safe? Do you have elderly friends or relatives who will need to stay with you during a storm? Keep a list of their prescribed medication.

Who should evacuate?

Residents living in the coastal regions of the island must evacuate.

If you reside in the beach area or areas prone to flooding, be ready to evacuate before pre-storm tides and flooding block your exit.

Listen continuously to the radio or television, and pay close attention to official announcements from the emergency services. Do not pay attention to rumours.

When a Hurricane Watch is announced this means that a hurricane may strike in an area within 24 to 48 hours. When a Hurricane Watch is announced, take the following precautions immediately.

Bring in objects which can be blown away. Garbage cans, garden tools, furniture and potted plants should not be left outdoors.

Anchor objects which cannot be brought inside.

Do not trim trees when a hurricane is approaching Place all valuables and personal documents in waterproof containers and store in the highest possible location.

• • • •

(FP)

High-rise building residents If your high-rise apartment is located in a coastal area, you must evacuate when ordered. High-rise building residents away from coastal areas may be asked to evacuate because of hurricane winds.

Make advanced arrangements and be prepared to seek refuge on the lowest floors. Hurricane winds are stronger at higher altitudes.

People with special needs

If a member of your family is bedridden, requires constant medical care, or has electrical life support equipment within the home, seek medical advice for special instructions before the storm approaches.

TRIM ALL OVERHANGING trees well in advance of a hurricane.

(RC)

Relocation to another area If you expect to evacuate your home in the event of a hurricane, plan in advance, where you will stay – (whether it will be with friends, relatives, at a hotel or a shelter), how you will get there, and the supplies you will take.

JUNE 26, 2011

SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 5

St Michael Category 1 public school shelters in St Michael Grazettes Primary School Harrison College Lawrence T. Gay Memorial School Luther Thorne Memorial School St Leonard’s Boys School St Matthew’s Primary School St Stephen’s Primary School Barbados Community College Bay Primary School Charles F. Broome Memorial School Combermere School Eden Lodge Primary School Ellerslie Secondary School The Garrison Secondary School Springer Memorial Secondary School University of the West Indies Westbury Primary School The St Michael School George Lamming Primary School St Ambrose Primary School Parkinson Memorial Secondary School Category 1 privately-owned shelters Black Rock Seventh Day Adventist Church

Dalkeith Methodist Church Emmanuel Baptist Church St Mary’s Anglican Church St Barnabas Day Care Centre Category 2 public shelters Belmont Primary School Deacon’s Primary Primary School Grantley Prescod Memorial School Eagle Hall Primary School Hindsbury Primary School St Giles Primary School St Mary’s Primary School St Paul’s Primary School Wesley Hall Infants School Wesley Hall Junior School Wilkie Cumberbatch Primary School Category 2 privately-owned shelters Chapman Street Church of God Fairfield Gospel Hall Government Hill Seventh Adventist Church Haggatt Hall Wesleyan Holiness Church St Matthew’s Anglican Church St Paul’s Anglican Church Whitehall Methodist Church

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6. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL.

JUNE 26, 2011

A HURRICANE is a tropical cyclone in which the maximum average wind speed near the centre or eye exceeds 74 mph or 119 km/h.

Hurricane winds blow in a large spiral around a relatively calm centre known as the “eye.” The “eye” is generally 20 to 30 miles wide, and the storm may extend outward 400 miles.

As a hurricane approaches, the skies will begin to darken and winds will grow in strength. As a hurricane nears land, it can bring torrential rains, high winds, and storm surges.

Q. Do all tropical depressions become hurricanes?

A: No, but in an average season,

As a hurricane grows, squalls of rain and wind break off the edges and move further ahead.

Q: How strong can hurricanes become?

A: Hurricanes are measured on a scale – the Saffir-Simpson Scale – of one to five, depending on their maximum sustained wind speed. A Category One storm has winds of 74 to 95 mph a Category Five storm, 155 mph or greater.

A: Forward speed varies and fluctuates; 10 to 15 mph is typical.

A: It speeds up. If wind speeds around the eyes hits 74 mph, a hurricane is born.

Q: How do hurricanes start?

A: A hurricane starts in either of two ways: As a tropical wave – not a sea wave – but a wave of tropical air – from the coast of West Africa; or a tropical depression.

Some tropical depressions form in the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean when the right conditions – among them low pressure and isolated thunderstorms – come together. On average, there are approximately ten tropical depressions in a hurricane season.

become a hurricane?

THE EYE of the hurricane.

(GP)

six of them do.

Q: What is a tropical storm?

A: That’s what a tropical depression becomes if the regulating wind blows steadily at 40 miles per hour (mph) and an eye forms – a roundish patch of calm air around which the wind circulates. When that happens, the storm is given a name.

has a committee that picks an alphabetical list of 21 names. (No names beginning with Q, U, X, Y or Z) are usually used.

Hurricanes have been given names since 1950. At first, forecasters used the military names for letters of the alphabet – Able, Baker, Charlie and so on.

Later, the names of women were used and still later, men’s and women’s names were used alternatively.

The use of Spanish and French A: Hurricanes are named to make names came much later. it easier to keep track of them.

Weather forecasters in the countries affected by hurricanes suggest names to the World Meteorological Organisation, which

Q: Who gives them names and why?

Q: How does a tropical storm

Q: What is the eye of a hurricane like?

Q: How fast does a hurricane move?

Q: What determines where it goes?

A: A hurricane’s path is dictated by what’s going on in the atmosphere around it.

Q: How does a hurricane die?

A: Since a hurricane is fuelled by warm water, it starts falling apart when it comes over cold water – or A: The inside of the eye is calm over land. But even though it is no and clear, like a chimney through which air rises, heated by the ocean. longer a hurricane, it can still dump a lot of rain and create a lot of havoc.

The heat gives the storm the A single hurricane can last for energy it needs to intensify. Warm ocean waters are the fuel that keep a more than two weeks over open waters and can run a path across the hurricane churning. entire length of the eastern The size of the eye fluctuates from 10 to 15 miles across, with the seaboard.

August and September are peal strongest wind whirling around in a months during the hurricane season, belt about 50 miles wide. Beyond that, reaching out as far as 400 miles, which lasts from June 1 to November 30. gale-force winds circulate.

JUNE 26, 2011

SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 7

IN PREPARATION for an expected hurricane strike, make sure you have enough of everything for at least four weeks. You will need to keep some of these items in airtight containers or plastic bags. Some basic items, not including food and water might include: Clean containers for storing drinking water: A gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation is required. Have a two-week supply on hand for each person. Use clean containers for storing drinking water. Food-grade plastic containers that have screw caps, such as twolitre pet bottles, are best. Plastic milk jugs, though they can be leaky, will do in a pinch.

Gallon-sized freezer bags for making ice: You'll want to fill them with water and freeze as many as you can a A TORCHLIGHT with an adequate supply of batteries, and extra bulbs for lanterns are invaluable during and after few days before the storm is expected to the hurricane. (FP) arrive.

Household bleach, (without lemon scent), to purify water.

Tools: hammer and nails; crowbar; screwdrivers; pliers; a drill (consider batterypowered) with screwdriver bits and adapters to install bolts; extra fasteners and bolts for shutters; a knife; handsaw.

Duct tape and masking tape. thread Flashlight for Mosquito repellent each member of the family, with extra A first aid kit batteries Extra prescription medications, enough for Radio or battery-powered TV with extra a month. batteries Disposable diapers and wipes Fire extinguisher A two-week supply of food for your pets Lantern with extra fuel or Several boxes of garbage bags, with ties, to batteries/candles collect refuse and to store goods to keep Matches: Wooden kitchen matches are them dry. best. Keep them dry in a plastic bag or plastic Large plastic trash cans with sealing lids film container. work well for the storage of most items. As A charcoal or gas grill with a supply of fuel alternatives, try duffel bags, camping backpacks so you can cook if you are left without or cardboard boxes. electricity or gas. Never use a grill inside.

Rope or heavy cord. Get 100 feet. It can Sterno stove, with extra fuel be useful in many ways; as an indoor Oven mitts, for handling hot clothesline, for example. cookware.

Tarpaulin, canvas or plastic Disposable plastic eating sheeting. This is good for making utensils, to help you save water. temporary roof repairs or Hand-operated can opener HURRICANE tents.

Soap Safety razor blades TIP Toiletries Money (most ATMs Toilet paper. (Keep will not be dry in plastic bags).

During the hurricane season. try operational) Needle and

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•• • •• • •

•

•

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to keep the gas tank of your vehicle as full as possible. Do not wait until a storm or hurricane is approaching to go to the service station.

Christ Church Category 1 public school shelters in Christ Church Milton Lynch Primary School St Christopher Primary School Arthur Smith Primary School Gordon Walters Primary School Christ Church Girls School Christ Church Foundation School Category 1 privately-owned shelters Cane Vale Seventh Day Adventist Church Christ Church Parish Church Hall

St. Christopher Anglican Church Category 2 public school shelters St Lawrence Primary School Vauxhall Primary School St Bartholomew’s Primary School Category 2 privately owned shelters Hawthorn Methodist Church St Matthias Anglican Church The Salvation Army Church (Wotton)

8. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL.

JUNE 26, 2011

by ANMARIE BAILEY WITH THE ADVENT of tracking weather systems on-line, we decided to investigate whether this was a good practice to engage in.

The Barbados Meteorological Office, which is the official weather warning entity for Barbados, Dominica and St Vincent and the Grenadines, does not discourage the public from using the Internet to obtain information on approaching weather systems, but advises not to let online sites be the only medium for obtaining weather information.

There are several sites that provide weather information and are sanctioned by the “Met Office”.

Locally there is: www.barbadosweather.org, which is highly recommended, and regionally, there is the Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology at www.cimh.edu.bb For international sites, The Barbados Meteorological Office recommends the National Hurricane Center at www.nhc.noaa.gov, or RAMSDIS which is located at http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/ramsdis/online/r mtc.asp as another reputable source.

While these sites provide information, interpretation of the data is key.

If the posted information is interpreted correctly, then one possible benefit would be the ability to make early preparations to mitigate any likely impacts.

However, there is also the drawback that information can be misinterpreted, and acting on data that has been misinterpreted may lead to unnecessary panic.

WHILE ONLINE hurricane watch sites can prove useful, they should not replace the bulletins issued by These sites should not replace the Met Office. (GP) the bulletins issued by the “Met Office”.

The public should make every efforts to listen to the radio stations on a regular basis, and to keep up-to-date with the weather via the nightly weather programme on television.

Category 1 public school shelters Category 1 privately-owned shelters Category 2 privately-owned shelters Six Roads Church of Christ In addition, information on Rices Methodist Church St. Mark’s Anglican Church preparation before, during and after the Hilda Skeene Primary School Princess Margaret Secondary School Six Roads Seventh Day Adventist Church St. Mark’s Church Hall passage of a weather system can be St. Mark’s Primary School St. Catherine’s Anglican Church found at D.E.M’S or CDEMA’S websites St. Philip Primary School Category 2 public shelters Gemswick Nazarene Church at www.cero.gov.bb or Reynold Weekes Primary School Ruby Nazarene Church www.cdema.org respectively.

Bayley’s Primary School Four Square Nazarene Church

St Philip

HURRCIANE TIP: Do not venture outside during a storm or hurricane, especially if there are strong winds. Roof tops and various debris are often blown about abd could cause tremendous damage.

JUNE 26, 2011

SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 9

St George Category 1 public school shelters Cuthbert Moore Primary School Ellerton Primary School St. George Primary School St. Jude’s Primary School St. Luke’s/Brighton Primary School Workman’s Primary School Blackman Gollop Primary School Category 2 privately-owned (RC)

shelters St. George Parish Church St. Luke’s Church St. Jude’s Church Hall Category 2 public school shelters South District Primary School

What they mean when they say . . .

A VITAL COMPONENT of the hurricane season is understanding what the various terms used by the meteorologists mean: Here’ is a “dictionary” guide: Tropical Disturbance: a tropical disturbance is the beginning of a hurricane. It has no strong winds or closed isobars around an area of low pressure containing cloudiness and some precipitation. A tropical disturbance commonly exists in the tropical trade winds at any time.

Depression: a tropical depression is the next stage of a developing hurricane. It has at least one closed isobar that accompanies a drop in pressure in the centre of the storm. A depression usually has maximum sustained winds below 38 miles per hour.

Tropical Storm: this is a weather system whose maximum sustained winds lie between 39 and 73 miles per hour.

HUR

RICA

NE T NEVE IP: R FO O of wa ter w L AROUN hich a D in resu garba lt of a hur re created pools are of ge, nails an ricane. De as a br ten sw d ept al broken bo is, o during ng in the ttles water heavy the rains.

Hurricane: as surface pressures continue to drop, strengthening the pressure gradient of the storm, the storm becomes a hurricane.

By then the maximum speed of a weather system reached or exceeds 74 miles per hour.

Advisory: an advisory is a notice which names and describes the present and forecasts the track and intensity of a weather system. Advisories are usually issued at six hourly intervals.

Warning: a warning is actually an alert which replaces an advisory when severe storm or hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours.

Watch: this is issued by the meteorologist when storm or hurricane conditions are a real possibility.

Saffir System Scale: used by the National Weather Services in the United States to give public safety officials an assessment of the potential wind and storm surge damage from a hurricane. Information is usually made available about 72 hours from landfall and is revised regularly as new observations are made.

Scale numbers range from one to five.

Category 1 hurricanes with maximum sustained winds of 74 miles per hour are the least problematic, whereas Category 5 applies to hurricanes with wind speeds exceeding 155 miles per hour.

Small Craft Advisory: this is a warning of winds between 20-30 knots or of sea conditions which may be hazardous to small boats in coastal waters.

AFTER • Keep your radios tuned to a local station. Many precautionary steps must be taken after a hurricane passes.

• Keep your radio tuned continuously to a local station for frequent hurricane updates.

• Stay inside! Leave only if ordered to evacuate.

• If you must drive, watch for falling trees, fallen wires and flooding.

• Keep one window slightly open on the leeward side of your house. If a window breaks, go to an interior room to avoid injury from flying glass.

• Use your telephone for emergency calls only.

• If the eye of the storm passes over your house, stay inside! The winds will return suddenly –possibly with even greater force.

DURING

• Keep your radios tuned to one of the local stations.

Make certain the batteries are fresh in your portable radio.

• Stay away from beaches and other low-lying areas which may be swept by high tides or storm waves.

Leave early! Roads to high ground may become impassable hours before the hurricane hits land.

• Store anything that could blow away: garbage cans, garden tools, furniture and plants. Remove tree limbs that could fall on your house or power lines.

• Lock garage doors. Awnings should be tied securely or taken down. Board up windows.

• Do not drain your swimming pool. Turn off all electrical pool equipment. Add extra chlorine to avoid contamination.

• Boats should be hauled out or moored strongly.

• Do not try to secure your boat in rough water.

• Make certain your car is safe – preferably in a garage. Fill your tank with gasoline.

• Keep your flashlight in good working order. Be very careful if you use candles and/or portable cooking equipment.

• Fill clean containers with drinking water. Put large water container in the bathroom. Toilets will not flush if water supply is interrupted. Fill bathtubs and sinks.

• Be sure you have plenty of non-perishable food on hand.

• Fire can be a serious problem. Have a good fire extinguisher nearby. An alternative is a bucket of sand.

BEFORE

o o

o o o o

o o o o o o

Time (CDT)

Direction

Forward Speed (mph)

Central Pressure (inches Hg.) Maximum Wind (mph)

Lon gi (°Wtude )

o o o o o

Movement

Intensity

Forecast

AMBULANCE SERVICE QEH........... 511

Q.E.H HOSPITAL...........436-6450

FIRE EMERGENCY............311

EMERGENCY........... 436-6185 OR 427-8819

COAST GUARD & DEFENSE FORCE

7575

(CDERA) ............ 427-8513 OR 422-7725 /438-

DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

POLICE EMERGENCY...........211

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Extra drinking water TV antenna taken down Tubs and sinks filled with water Fire extinguisher Plenty well stocked: canned goods, milk, dry cereal , baby food, powdered drinks and lots of EVE products

CHECKLIST FOR A HURRICANE WARNING

Date

Battery-operated radio Pets inside or otherwise protected Functional flashlights Loose outside objects stored or secured Batteries for radio and flashlights First aid kit with bandages, adhesive tapes, antiseptics, etc.

Candles and plenty of matches Car tank filled with gasoline Extra ice in freezer Extra supply of prescription or emergency medications Gas for your cooking unit Tree branches tied or cut

Storm Name

Stock up for the hurricane season with Eve non-perishable foods.

When any disaster threatens, The NATION newspaper is your port in the storm. As soon as a hurricane is brewing in our area, you get on-the-scene coverage from The NATION’s award-winning reporters and photographers.

Get all of the stories – the whole picture – in The NATION newspaper and on nationnews.com

Your best protection is to stay informed by getting the details from radio bulletins.

A Tropical Storm Warning is issued for areas not directly affected by the hurricane. A Tropical Storm Warning is issued when possible sustained winds within the range of 39 to 73 mph are expected within 24 hours or less.

A Hurricane Warning is issued when forecasters believe the island will suffer hurricane damage. A Hurricane Warning is issued when winds are expected to sustain 74 mph or higher within 24 hours or less. When a Hurricane Warning is issued listen to your radio stations continuously and take all safety precautions.

A Hurricane Watch is posted for Barbados when a hurricane or an incipient hurricane condition poses a possible threat to the island. A Hurricane Watch does not indicate immediate danger. However, safety precautions requiring more than 18 hours to complete, should be started immediately.

When the stations broadcast a hurricane advisory, use the chart below to note the pertinent information. Then mark the location of the hurricane on the tracking chart.

When a hurricane forms radio stations in Barbados will provide its eye position by latitude and longitude. (For example, latitude 12.5 degrees north and longitude 40.6 degrees west)

Always keep your radios tuned to a local station since they give regular & reliable bulletins

HOW TO TRACK A HURRICANE

• Make a list of storm damage to your home. Take photographs of the damage for Insurance purposes.

• Open freezers and ice chest only when necessary until power is restored.

• Stay away from disaster areas! Stay away from broken and low-hanging power lines. Notify police or the utility company of the damage.

• Stay home! Do not drive!

Lat itu (°N) de

HURRICANE PRECAUTIONS

Forward Speed (mph)

Position

Direction

Caribbean Sea

Increasing

Atlantic Ocean

Decreasing

HURRICANE TRACKING CHART

10. SUNDAY SUN. JUNE 26, 2011 JUNE 26, 2011. SUNDAY SUN. 11

12. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL.

JUNE 26, 2011

St James Category 1 public shelters THOSE of us who experienced Tropical Storm Tomas last year know only too well what it is like to be without water and electricity for long periods.

During a disaster there may be no electricity or gas for cooking or refrigeration. Potable water may also be a scarce commodity. That’s why you should always keep water stored.

Here are a few points to remember about food and good nutrition, even in adverse conditions.

Make it a rule that you eat at least one major meal every day.

Drink adequate amounts of liquids (water, soup, juices, beverages) to enable your body to function properly.

Varieties may be limited, but calorie intake should be ample in order to meet energy needs and to spare protein to do more important work.

Always use and replenish “disaster foods” from time to time: date and rotate foods to keep them fresh and fit for consumption.

In your disaster planning, experiment by serving your family a “disaster meal” once a month so that you will be familiar with survival food preparation.

• • • • •

STOCK UP on canned, dry goods, and snacks for the children (below). (Pictures by Rawle Culbard.)

A VERY IMPORTANT component of storm/hurricane preparedness is ensuring that there’s enough canned food to last at least for a month.

While some may suggest that you consider the first 48 hours, there is no telling how much destruction can occur.

In addition to the foods you have already purchased, here is a list of food items which you should have, or from which you can choose: Condensed milk Evaporated milk Canned fruits and vegetables Nuts Water Salt-fish (this can keep long outside of a refrigerator) Dried Fruit Cornbeef Canned Tuna Canned fruit Snacks (such as nuts, hardened sweet) Sugar Canned/bottled drinks Sardines Biscuits Mackerel Salt Butter (which can survive outside of the refrigerator) Oats Cornflakes Luncheon Meat Spaghetti Rice Snacks Canned salmon Canned ham (The following foods are also worth keeping) : Sweet potatoes Carrots Irish potatoes Yam Eddoes

Good Shepherd Primary School Queen’s College St. Alban’s Primary School St. James Secondary School Gordon Greenidge Primary Category 1 privately-owned

shelters Garden Seventh Day Adventist Church Orange Hill Church of God Category 2 public shelters St. James Primary School St. Silas Primary School West Terrace Primary School

JUNE 26, 2011

SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 13

IT’S BETTER to be prepared for a hurricane, than to be caught unaware.

And since your property is most vulnerable during a hurricane, you must make the necessary plans to secure it.

Permanent shutters give the best protection, but you can also use marine plywood to cover your windows.

Here are some other tips:

•

Make every effort to secure your home. Now is still a good time to install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure.

Not only does your roof stand the chance of falling off, but if it is galvanise, it can fly in the wind and cause damage to others.

•

Keep storm shutters (windows) closed during the hurricane, secure outdoor objects, or bring them indoors.

•

The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA) suggests that you develop an emergency communication plan.

Make sure that all family members know what to do. Teach family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water.

Teach children how and when to call police or the fire department and which radio station to tune to for emergency information. In the Seek to carefully secure your pets and livestock. If event family members are separated need be, contact the National Society for the Prevention of during a disaster (a real possibility Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) to have your animals placed during the day when adults are at there until the storm/hurricane passes. (If you have to go to a work and children are at school), centre, remember that your pets will not be allowed there. have a plan for getting back together.

•

•

Check on your home and auto insurance coverage.

CHECK INSURANCE POLICIES to make sure you are covered for storm or hurricane damage. (CA)

•

Make every effort to cover your furniture with plastics, if you believe they will be susceptible to water damage.

•

After a storm, carefully walk around the outside and check for loose power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage. If you have any doubts about safety, have your residence inspected by a qualified building inspector or structural engineer before entering.

•

If a storm or hurricane is imminent, be sure to turn off electricity, especially if instructed to do so. If under hurricane conditions this is not suggested, keep your refrigerator to its coldest and keep the doors shut. In case the electricity goes out, you’ll still be able to keep the contents cold or frozen for a longer period.

• •

HURRICANE TIP: Stock up on

plenty of water for drinking, washing and bathing purposes during the hurricane season.

WHEN AN EMERGENCY OCCURS, YOUR DECISIONS ARE CRUCIAL.

Keep nearby trees trimmed, especially those closest to the roof.

Keep all important documents in waterproof containers.

The tranquility of your home or business comes first beyond anything.

SECURE ALL PETS and livestock to avoid loss or injury during a hurricane or storm. (NB)

St Peter Category 1 public school shelters

Alexandra School

All Saints Primary School Coleridge Parry School Roland Edwards Primary

Category 2 privately-owned shelters

Category 2 public school shelters

St. Philip-The-Less Church

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14. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL.

JUNE 26, 2011

St John Category 1 public school shelters St John Primary School Category 2 public school shelters Mount Tabor Primary School St Margaret’s Primary School Society Primary School

The following is an edited version of an article submitted by the General Insurance Association of Barbados.

THE General Insurance Association of Barbados Inc. (GIAB) is aware that Barbadians are very mindful of the recent impact on our lives by Tropical Storm Tomas and hence are guardedly witnessing the increasing prevalence of disasters occurring all over the world.

The association commends its members for their timely response to the numerous claims made by policyholders in the aftermath of Tomas. Thus far more than 1 500 claims were settled which accounted for approximately BDS$8 million.

The GIAB applauds its members for the major role they play by continuing to offer relevant insurance coverage against hurricane, storm, earthquake, flood and fire which is easily accessible and can be obtained at a reasonable cost.

Having insurance in place on your property (building, contents or vehicle) when a disaster strikes affords peace of mind to the policyholder as it is one of the best ways of recovering financially after experiencing loss or damage to your belongings.

The GIAB is therefore rather concerned that some Barbadians still choose not to protect their belongings with some form of insurance coverage.

Concerns Deductible Based on the numerous queries the association received concerning settlements from policyholders affected by Tomas, it seems that a number of policyholders were unaware of the standard two per cent deductible which applies to claims on properties caused by a catastrophic peril, for example hurricane, storm or earthquake.

Claims which fell below the deductible (calculated at 2% of the sum insured) prevented policyholders from assessing funds.

On the other hand, the 2% deductible had to be applied against losses in excess of the deductible.

Here is an example: Sum insured on property $250 000 (1) Estimated Loss $4 000 Deductible 2% of $250 000 = $5 000 In this example, the policyholder will be unable to receive a settlement as the claim loss falls below the deductible.

(2) Estimated loss $100 000 Deductible 2% of $250 000 = $5 000 In this example, the policyholder will receive a payout of $95 000 i.e. ($100 000 less $5 000).

Under insurance Another major concern was related to the application of “average”. This is a stated policy condition and is applied where properties are insured for less than their rebuilding cost (replacement value). Claims in this instance are dealt with accordingly.

Sum insured on property: $250 000 Actual value at risk: $500 000 Estimated loss: $100 000 Application of average: 250 000 (sum insured)x100 000(loss) = $50 000 500 000 (value at risk) Settlement: $50 000 less $5 000 (2% deductible) Net Payment: $45 000

The GIAB urges all Barbadians and residents to insure their properties and at the rebuilding or replacement cost as disasters are increasing in both frequency and severity. It is for this reason that persons should not be caught without insurance at any time since disasters remain highly unpredictable.

WITH ALL THE DANGERS that flying debris and falling trees pose to life and property it makes sense to adequately insure your hard earned investment against damage. (FP)

Category 2 privately owned shelters Codrington College St Gabriel Church

JUNE 26, 2011

SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL . 15

IT IS EASY for some children to be both excited and afraid at the news that a storm or hurricane will hit their country.

One thing is sure, if families are unprepared, children can become frightened, panic, and behave in ways that put them at risk. Parents need to sit down together and review what to do in the event of flooding to stay safe and minimize danger to their home, belongings, pets, or most importantly, themselves.

St Lucy Category 1 public school shelters Ignatius Byer Primary School St Lucy Primary School Category 1 privately owned shelters St Lucy Parish Church Pentecostal House of Prayer Hope Road Church of the Nazarene

Terms and Risks A flash-flood warning means you should get to higher ground immediately if your current surroundings are prone to flooding. Children should also be aware of streams, drainage channels, and areas where sudden floods occur. A flood warning means flooding will take place at some point. By contrast, a flood watch or flash-flood watch indicates that flooding is possible. To stay abreast of the status of rising waters, tune in to the radio.

Walking Children should be taught the dangers of crossing moving water. If they have to walk in water, they should walk where the water is still, and should use a stick to check the firmness of the ground ahead.

FLOODED, THANKS to Tomas’ rains.

(NB)

Driving It's very likely that after a flood warning you and your family will leave the area in your car. Remember that just six inches of water will reach the bottom of most cars and can cause your car to stall. One foot of water can float cars, and two feet of water will carry most away. Ask children to help remind you to avoid driving through rushing water during stressful driving moments, and also remind them that staying in a car isn't safe if the water is rising fast.

Electricity Children should also know how dangerous combining electricity and water is thanks to the enormous warning labels attached to most electrical appliances. If a flood occurs, ensure that kids know not to touch electrical equipment if they are wet or standing KEEP CHILDREN away from in water. They can be downed power lines. (NB) electrocuted.

In addition, do not allow children to play in water after a storm or hurricane. It’s dangerous! The water is never clean, and there may be debris covered by water, which can cause damage. Trees may also be weakened by the water, so children should also never be allowed to play close to trees following severe flooding, a storm or hurricane.

Category 2 public school shelters Half Moon Fort Selah Primary School St Lucy Secondary School

16. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL.

JUNE 26, 2011

St Thomas Category 1 public schools shelters Sharon Primary School Lester Vaughn Secondary School Hillaby/Turner’s Hall Primary School Category 1 privately owned shelters Clifton Hall Moravian Church Category 2 public school shelters Holy Innocent’s Primary School Welches Primary School

THE LESTER VAUGHAN SCHOOL (left) is but one of three Category 1 public school shelters in St Thomas. (FP) ABOVE RIGHT: If there’s any doubt your house can weather the storm, it is best to head for a shelter in your district. (RC)

CHANCES ARE when a storm or hurricane warning is given you may be separated from family members. Make every effort before the actual storm or hurricane hits to make contact, and be sure that you know where your relatives are.

Have a plan in place, so you know how to make contact.

Now is the time to teach each other on how to use a cell phone, and to make contact.

At home, you will need to put other measures in place.

Wherever possible, stay indoors.

Be sure that you have an adequate list of emergency items, such as a flashlight, hand-crank radio, and a solar powered cell phone charger. Charge your phone well in advance, since storms/hurricanes often result in power outages.

Have enough food in the home for at least five days emergency kit can sustain your family for at least 72 hours after the storm.

Be sure to make copies of all important family documents such as marriage certificates, insurance policies, birth certificates, identification and bank account records.

Store them in a tight-fitting waterproof container.

Keep your ears glued to the radio, which should be battery operated, so you’ll be able to track the storm’s path; know which areas are being affected, and keep track of what’s happening in the lives of others. They may be relatives, friends or neighbours, whom you may be able to help.

• • • • •

HAVE ENOUGH FOOD In your home to sustain your family for at least five days. (GP)

JUNE 26, 2011

AS IN THE CASE of residents, business owners must seek to protect both their offices and employees during the hurricane season.

Staff should be aware of what measures they need to take. One way of knowing this is to select suitable members of staff to act as officers in case of emergency, and to have a written plan in place for the protection of plant, equipment and personnel.

The following should also be considered: Develop procedures and policies for all phases of hurricane operations: — Pre-season preparedness; — Hurricane watch;

•

St Andrew Category 1 public school shelters Alleyne Secondary School St Andrew Primary School Category 2 public school shelters Chalky Mount Primary School

SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 17

— Hurricane warning; — After the hurricane.

The need to identify and protect vital records such as accounts receivables, customer records and other personal and administrative documents must be considered.

As in the case of home owners, business owners should review their insurance policies to ensure there is adequate coverage.

You must also ask yourself the following: Is the facility located in an area prone to flooding?

Does the insurance package include wind/storm coverage and does the insurance cover damage to contents, including vital records and office equipment?

Is the facility in a high-hazard/evacuation area?

Does the package include liability coverage for injury to employees as well as potential lawsuits from customers?

Being properly prepared will mean safeguarding your business long before June 1 of each year. You can actually start this by compiling an emergency contact list with 24-hour telephone numbers of essential employees.

Identify a safe storage level area within the facility where records can be relocated if necessary. This area should be above ground level, and away from windows and exterior

• • • •

ROLL SHUTTERS not only provide protection all-round against vandals and thieves, but also from flying debris during a storm or hurricane. (FP) walls which may leak.

If you are in a one-storey facility, file cabinets and boxes may be placed on raised pallets. Consider moving vital records off-site, particularly if the business is in an area vulnerable to storm-surges.

Determine responsibility for maintaining the facility by ensuring that the following items are addressed: Inventory and repair hurricane shutters Patch roof and windows Check security and lighting Identify lightweight, loose items stored outside which may blow about in the wind Identify emergency power requirements and determine if a generator is available.

If the facility must be operational during a hurricane and a generator is not available, rent or purchase one. This would need to be tested monthly during the hurricane season.

Determine whether computer support will be available for primary/critical computer users who need to remain operational during a hurricane.

Verify that communications equipment is

• • •• • • • •

operational.

Determine the type and amount of hurricane emergency supplies necessary.

These should be clearly marked and stored in a secured area accessible in an emergency.

Recommended supplies should include: Food and water supplies for staff assigned to the facility during the hurricane.

An emergency tool kit A battery operated radio or television One flashlight per person working during the hurricane Extra batteries for both radio and flashlights First aid kits Provide employees with hurricane preparedness information.

• • • • • • • •

HURRICANE TIP REMEMBER to stock up on canned foods during the hurricane season, as such supplies are key to survival after a storm or hurricane has passed.

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18 SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL.

SHOULD IT BECOME necessary for you to go to a shelter, there are some items which you should carry. Be sure that you have the following: Flashlights Pillows Blankets Sleeping bags Special medication If you have a baby, take along baby diapers, bottle and other baby essentials Cots Books and toys for small children Since no meals will be served, you will also need to travel with food — including canned meals The Red Cross Society and St John Ambulance will provide first aid services, but will not be equipped to provide hospital care.

NO intoxicating beverage will be permitted in emergency shelters.

IF you are pregnant, contact your physician as to his/her recommendations for your health and safety.

• • • • • • • •

JUNE 26, 2011

FRESH WATER is a precious commodity, especially after a devastating storm compromises supply. (FP) AT LEFT: Remember to take an ice filled cooler along with you especially if you have medications you need to keep chilled as long as possible. (RC)

St Joseph Category 1 public school shelters St Bernard’s Primary School Grantley Adams Memorial School St Joseph Primary School

JUNE 26, 2011

SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 19

ONE OF THE worst things about a hurricane is a general rise in sea level, often referred to as a sea surge.

It begins over the deep ocean, as the low pressure and strong winds around the hurricane’s eye raise the ocean’s surface much higher than the surrounding ocean surface, forming a dome of water as much as 50 miles across.

As the storm moves into the shallow coastal waters, decreasing water depth transforms the dome into a storm surge than can rise 20 feet or more above normal sea levels and cause massive flooding and destruction along the shorelines.

The rise may come rapidly and produce flash floods in coastal lowlands or may come in the form of giant waves.

Wind speeds also vary greatly from hurricane to hurricane and within each storm. Wind gusts may exceed sustained winds by 25 to 50 per cent. For example, a storm with sustained winds of 200 miles per hour might have gusts from 125150 miles per hour, and one with 150 miles per hour might have gusts over 200 miles per hour.

The time between the first rise in the wind and rain squalls and a return to moderate winds after the storm is often about 24 hours. But this varies greatly depending on the size of the hurricane, its forward speed, and how close you are to the centre.

Due to the high waves and rough seas, it is advisable during a hurricane that you stay clear of the ocean.

Furthermore, fishermen are advised if possible, to remove their boats and take them to safety on land.

If found unsecured in high-risk areas, boats can meet a predictable fate.

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ng f Durri stay ofess l un aste a dis lephoneessary e c the taking necy calls. m ergen em :

TIP

Help, in times of disaster THE Department of Emergency Management (DEM) in Barbados is the agency responsible for the National Emergency Management System in Barbados. It is not seen simply as that of rendering “salvation after the storm” but rather to encourage, equip and accustom people in all walks of life to work together for their own preservation. This department activates the community to be prepared to deal with any type of disaster.

Working with the DEM is the District Emergency Organisation (DEO), which operates as the volunteer arm.

The role of the DEO is to organize and co-ordinate the resources of the community to allow for an effective response in time of crisis. The DEO works with the community to develop and operationalise disaster prevention and disaster preparedness programmes to lessen the impact of identified hazards such as hurricanes, floods and earthquakes, fires, aircraft and vehicular accidents.

The DEO reaches out to all groups in the community, including churches, service clubs, neighbourhood watches, PTAs, skilled artisans, families, community groups, nongovernmental organisations and most importantly the individuals living in the community. There is also a close association with the government agencies such as the Fire Service and the Police that operate in the respective communities.

The DEO’s main functions are to provide a forum for education and training at the community level, develop a mechanism for initial emergency response as well as develop a mechanism to facilitate the conduct of damage assessment, needs analysis and relief distribution.

In addition, organisations such as the St John Ambulance Brigade, Barbados Red Cross Society, Barbados Defence Force, the Royal Barbados Police Force, and the Barbados Coast Guard – to mention a few – all play their part during times of disaster.

At the end of the day, each and every individual must play his or her part during times of national disaster.

A RISE IN SEA LEVEL whcih is common during hurricanes and storms, can lead to storm surges which pose a danger to unsecured boats. (NB)

20. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL.

HERE’S A LIST of things you should do and should not do after a storm or hurricane: Check for leaking gas, sewerage breaks, broken electrical lines and building damage Keep tuned in to your radio for further advice and instructions such as – where to go for emergency assistance such as housing, clothing and food, and where to go for medical care Check for trapped or missing persons, get rescue assistance, notify authorities of missing individuals.

Check for injuries and provide first aid.

DO NOT handle live electrical equipment in wet area DO NOT use food that has come into contact with flood waters DO NOT visit disaster sites as spectators DO NOT use water which has not been boiled until you’re told it is safe

JUNE 26, 2011

(RC)

• • • • • • • •

ANE HURRIC

TIP:

ne, full a ic r r u h a After must be s s t n e m s s e s as ome h e r fo e b d conducte d or built. are repaire

(FP)

A RADIO and adequate first-aid supplies are must-haves during the hurricane season.

AFTER A MAJOR hurricane strikes, damages are usually major and widespread. It may take weeks or even months for essential services such as electricity, telephone usage and water to become available.

This means that before the hurricane, you must put a crisis management plan in place for your family. Please do not wait for the authorities to do so.

Here’s what you can consider: WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF . . .

For weeks you are without electricity, water or telephone usage.

For weeks you are without water for drinking, cooking, washing, personal hygiene and for your animals For weeks you are without gasoline for transportation or for cooking.

For weeks you cannot enter your home Try to imagine your day to day situation under circumstances like the above and develop a creative plan to adopt in the event that Barbados experiences a storm or hurricane.