Dear Editor,
We are now at the beginning of the 2016 Hurricane Season with quite some activity in the Gulf of Mexico, which is no surprise. This usually is the announcement that the season is here. We can see changes in the wind pattern in the North Eastern Caribbean.
The comfort zone we enjoyed for quite a while is getting capricious. Hot days with moderate winds at times are replaced by strong winds followed by welcomed precipitation.
Florida and the Eastern Seaboard are paying attention to tropical updates, and we have to do the same. It pays to take a look at what happens at the west coast of Africa and the Cape Verdes islands also.
Usually early, at the beginning of the season, adverse weather conditions do spring up in the Southern area of the Gulf of Mexico. However, there are indications that tropical activity is brewing in the panhandle of Florida, and rather close to the Atlantic coast of Florida. Floridians had a good reason to be aware of tropical weather close to home for the last couple of weeks. When Florida is taking early steps, this is a warning for the NE Caribbean to initiate early basic preparedness and to be active in a short time to prevent damage to the home, persons and pets.
By all means, follow the instructions given to the public, unfortunately sometimes, the elusive public obedience crowd. What the public has to remember is that every person who lives and works on this island should have an I.D. card ready to show pertinent authorities when asked for.
St. Maarten/St. Martin is known to protect the island and their indigenous families. Because of that other people find this island being best prepared compared to other islands of the CARICOM.
Therefore, before, during and after a storm or hurricane, the islands may be surprised by an ‘increase’ in population. The island’s finances are not that strong to spend money where money should not be spent. Awareness and preparation should take priority in our minds and activity.
And, from now on, since the season is actually in full swing, most entities whether government, including the Coast Guard, and public organizations; the NGOs, should be on call so to speak. Have your hurricane map ready. Listen to the authorities. “I had no idea, I did not know,” are words that not too many people are willing to understand, in fact these are the words that are utterly annoying.
There is a lot to learn by reading the clouds. Clouds store a lot of information. Ask the computer folks.
Rudy Dovale
