The Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Dr Roosevelt Skerrit has made an announcement that there have no reports of the injury or death directly related to the weather conditions. He made the above mentioned announced while addressing the media conference on Tuesday.
It is to be noted that the island state of Dominica was affected by the Tropical Storm Phillipe which has resulted in major flooding, landslides, and falling rocks in some of the parts of the island.
He revealed that, “We had had no reports of injury or death and for this, we give praise and thanks to the Almighty. Unfortunately, there was a vehicular accident in the Belles area, not directly related to the weather conditions. Passengers suffered some injuries; we wish them a speedy recovery. The center of TS Phillippe passed at least 150 miles away from Dominica.”
He further added that, “We did not have to contend with high winds, but continue to feel the effects of the intense rain. Here in Dominica, apart from the MET office’s normal updates a flood watch had been issued as of yesterday morning which was later upgraded to a flood warning.”
Moreover, he added that the rainfall in excess of 6 inches was recorded, which resulted in flash flooding, landslides, and rock falls; and assessments are being carried out in the areas that have been affected. PM Skerrit has highlighted that the Ministry of Public Works has been on alert and is currently engaged in road clearance operations where necessary, working alongside the staff of the Fire and Ambulance Service.
He stated that, “The office of Disaster Management along with other relevant departments continues to assess the damage and a full report is pending. The government will update citizens as per the information comes from several departments.”
While addressing the media concerns, PM Roosevelt Skerrit, said that, “From our experiences, we know that we are especially vulnerable to severe and changing weather patterns associated with climate change. Let us keep our guard up always, make the necessary preparations, and heed the warnings of the Met office and the Office of Disaster Management in order to protect lives and property.”
