PHILIPSBURG--Coastal residents are advised by the Office of Disaster Management (ODM) to have plans in place for possible storm surge in the event of a passing tropical storm or hurricane. Plans should have been in place since June 1, said ODM.
Property damages from hurricanes and coastal flooding have been increasing year by year, and in many places the threat to life is increasing as well, according to National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Most coastal communities are vulnerable to one or more kinds of flooding and related hazards: frequent flooding from storm surge and winds; and storm-caused erosion of bluffs and beaches.
Coastal areas of Sint Maarten are: Beacon Hill, Simpson Bay, Pelican, and Philipsburg (along the Boardwalk).
In the event of a passing storm or hurricane, homeowners should secure their possessions to upper levels of the structure. If homeowners decide not to stay in their home, they should make arrangements for another place to stay before the passing of the storm system.
ODM's check list for homeowners include turning off water and gas, having a radio and spare batteries, a First Aid kit, flashlight, spare bedding, bottled water and canned food, house keys, prescription medicine, cash and credit cards, mobile phone and spare clothing.
