Caribbean: Hurricane Maria approaches region Sep. 18

Event

Hurricane Maria is approaching the Lesser Antilles and is expected to make landfall beginning on Monday, September 18. As of 08:00 (local time) the storm, which is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane sometime on Monday, was located approximately 135 km (85 mi) east of the island of Martinique; maximum sustained winds of 175 km/h (110 mph) were recorded. According to predictions by the US-based National Hurricane Center (NHC), Maria is expected to cross over the central and northern Lesser Antilles September 18-19 before reaching Puerto Rico late on September 20. The storm could then also pass over the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and/or the Bahamas from September 21 onwards.

Violent winds, torrential rains, and storm surges are possible in the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and the Bahamas, although no alerts or warnings have been issued as of yet. Associated flooding, landslides, and wind damage are also possible, along with transportation disruptions, power outages, and business/store closures.

Context

Much of the Caribbean region is still recovering from Hurricane Irma, a Category 5 storm that struck the region the week of September 6-10. Irma caused mass destruction in widespread areas, including Saint Martin/Sint Maarten, Saint Barthélemy, Cuba, and the Florida Keys. 

Advice

Individuals present in the Caribbean region are advised to keep abreast of weather alerts, confirm travel reservations, avoid coastal and mountainous areas (risk of flooding and landslides), and adhere to all advice issued by the local authorities.

In the event of flooding, remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult. Finally, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, wear boots and try to avoid any contact with the water. All items having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and foodstuffs disposed of.