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USVI Residents Urged to Secure Shelter and Prepare for Hurricane Jose

Hurricane Jose has become an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane that may impact the U.S. Virgin Islands; its effects may be felt as early as Saturday evening. Whether you shelter in place or evacuate to the nearest shelter, here are some basic tips for preparing your family and pets before and during the storm.

UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

_________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 8, 2017

USVI Residents Urged to Secure Shelter and Prepare for Hurricane Jose

Hurricane Jose has become an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane that may impact the U.S. Virgin Islands; its effects may be felt as early as Saturday evening. Whether you shelter in place or evacuate to the nearest shelter, here are some basic tips for preparing your family and pets before and during the storm.

  • Assemble at least a three-day supply of necessities per person. Items can include food and water, personal hygiene products, toilet paper, blankets, medications, diapers for infants, sani-wipes, games and toys for kids, and personal identification. 
  • In cases where pets are allowed in shelters, it is the responsibility of the owner to have the following items: Cage and leash for all pets, sufficient food and water on hand and pet medication if necessary.

The following shelter locations are open to house those in need:

  • St. Thomas:(1)  Knud Hansen Complex, (2) Lockhart Elementary School, (3) Bertha B. Boschulte Junior High School and (4) Yvonne Bowsky Elementary School
  • St. Croix: St. Croix Educational Complex (Opens on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at 4pm)
  • St. John: Myrah Keating Smith Clinic

If you intend to seek refuge in a shelter please bring at least a three-day supply of food, water, personal hygiene products, toilet paper, blankets, medications, diapers for infants, sani-wipes, games and toys for children, and personal identification. Additional shelters are being sought out on the island of St. Thomas and St. John. Currently the Knud Hansen Complex is at capacity.

Adequate preparation is critical. Ensure you and your family are informed and prepared. VITEMA urges everyone to continue listening to the weather updates (radio, and online media sources, etc.), to include VI-ALERTS. Plan ahead with family members and assess your homes before the storm arrives. This will ensure you carefully arrive at a shelter quickly and safely no matter the circumstances. 

For continuous updates go to informusvi.com, vialert.gov. For further information and to report disaster related incidences or to request rescue and recovery call 340-773-2244. In the event of an emergency call 911.

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