UK: Hurricane Warning issued for British Virgin Islands as Dorian approaches August 28

Event

The British Virgin Islands' Premier and Minister of Finance Andrew Fahie ordered the activation of emergency protocols as Hurricane Dorian - Category 1 storm on the Saffir-Simpson scale - is forecast to bring heavy rains and strong winds to the country on Wednesday, August 28. The government has activated the National Emergency Operating Center, closed all government offices, and ordered emergency services to remain on standby amid concerns for severe flooding and wind damage.

As of 14:00 (local time) on Wednesday, Dorian is located at approximately 18.3°N and 65.0°W (map here) and is tracking to the northwest at 20 kph (13 mph). The storm has maximum sustained winds of 120 kph (75 mph); the US National Hurricane Center has issued a Hurricane Warning for the British Virgin Islands. Rainfall totals of 3-8 cm (10-15 in) are possible across the island, with isolated totals of 25 cm (10 in). 

Transportation and business disruptions, as well as power outages, are to be expected in areas forecast to be affected by Dorian over the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate consequent power outages and transportation and business disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.