As of 4pm, Tropical Storm Rafael moved north with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph.
o Currently 395 miles southeast of Grand Cayman, Rafael is expected to reach hurricane strength tomorrow, with Little Cayman at the closest point of approach.
o Tropical storm-force winds (39-73 mph) and hurricane-force gusts (74+ mph) are expected, along with wave heights of 9-13 feet for the Sister Islands and 5-7 feet with possible swells of 9-13 feet for Grand Cayman.
Government Closures:
· All non-essential government offices, services, and schools are closed Tuesday, 5 November. Closure updates for Wednesday will follow.
Health Services:
· HSA Adjustments: All elective surgeries, outpatient clinics, district clinics, and dental services will be closed. A&E and Urgent Care remain open. Chronic medication refills are advised if needed—call 244-2715/2716.
Airports:
· Closures: Charles Kirkconnell (8:30 am) and Owen Roberts (9:30 am) airports on Tuesday. Reopening expected by noon, Wednesday, 6 November.
· Cayman Airways: All Miami and domestic jet services are cancelled, except KX104 (8:30 am departure from Grand Cayman). Affected passengers will be accommodated on rescheduled flights post-clearance.
Utilities:
· Water Authority: Possible interruptions to protect distribution system—store water for both drinking and non-drinking needs.
· Telecommunications: Temporary service interruptions affecting calls between Flow and Digicel; providers are addressing these issues.
Other Closures:
· Garbage collection and all landfills closed Tuesday, potentially delaying regular schedules.
Stay Informed:
· For the latest and most accurate information, follow these official channels:
o WhatsApp:
o Cayman Islands Government: https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaaYxbN2f3EOINrXHX0S
o Cayman Islands National Weather Service: https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vadriki8vd1RuPQvhY0M
· Bulletins and Advisories:
o GOV.KY
o Weather.gov.ky
o Radio Cayman 89.9 FM
· Government Notices, Closures & Office Hours: www.gov.ky/noticeboard
· Emergency Alerts:
o Download the NENS app
· Storm Preparedness Tips: CaymanPrepared.ky
#CaymanIslands #HurricanePreparedness
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