Grand Cayman Placed Under Tropical Storm Warning
As of 7:00pm, Grand Cayman has been placed under a Tropical Storm Warning. Tropical storm force winds can be expected within the next 36 hours as the system, currently identified as Potential Tropical Cyclone 9, continues to move north.
Potential Tropical Cyclone 9 is currently 98 miles from Grand Cayman, 199 miles from the Sister Islands, and moving north-northwest at 7 mph. The closest point of approach will be 94 miles per hour and the estimated arrival of tropical storm force winds is 1:00 a.m. Tuesday, 24 September.
The public can expect very rough seas, heavy widespread thunderstorms, and potential severe flooding in low-lying areas. The Cayman Islands remains under a flood warning and from this evening there will be a small craft warning in effect.
"Although the system will not be classified as a tropical storm at its closest point to Grand Cayman, due to the rapid development of Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine and out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to issue a tropical storm warning for Grand Cayman," said John Tibbetts, Director General of the Cayman Islands National Weather Service. “We strongly encourage the public to stay off the roads and avoid unnecessary travel until the system has passed the Cayman Islands."
Sandbag filling stations have been in operation throughout Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac since Sunday afternoon and can be found at the following locations:
Agriculture Pavillion, Grand Cayman
West Bay Fire Station, Grand Cayman
Frank Sound Fire Station, Grand Cayman
Linford Pierson Highway, Grand Cayman
Watering Place Gardens, Cayman Brac
Cotton Tree Bay, Cayman Brac
The Red Cross shelter will open at 7:00 p.m. this evening as a precaution for members of the public.
“As we prepare for impact from Potential Tropical Cyclone 9, I want to remind all residents to prioritize safety and to support your loved ones and those most vulnerable in your communities. This weather system is somewhat unpredictable, and as such we are taking an abundance of caution. We ask you to do the same and heed the warnings and continue following official sources throughout the next 24 hours. Let us remain calm, prepared and vigilant", said Hazard Management Cayman Islands Director Dani Coleman.
Further updates and guidance will be provided as the situation evolves. The public is encouraged to check for information on the following platforms:
Cayman Islands Government: www.gov.ky
Hazard Management Cayman Islands: www.caymanprepared.ky
National Weather Service: www.weather.gov.ky
Emergencies: 911
Social Media: @caymangov @caymanprepared
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