ST. EUSTATIUS--Statians started their preparations over the weekend for the passing of Hurricane Maria, a dozen days after monster Hurricane Irma blew through the local area leaving a wide trail of destruction in her wake.
Many homes are still damaged or without roofs in Statia. Several houses have been abandoned around the island. Remaining residents hope those property owners secure them or that authorities come up with a solution.
Disaster Coordinator Edris Bennet-Merkman said a new platoon of Royal Dutch Marines under the leadership of Joost Wijker arrived on Sunday afternoon as a precaution for the passing of Hurricane Maria. The Marines arrived aboard a military helicopter together with Military Nurse Nadine van der Kamp. They also brought supplies aboard the flight.
