Tourism officials urge visitors to leave if they have the means to do so, ahead of Hurricane Matthew
Turks and Caicos Islands (October 3, 2016) – Management and Emergencies (DDME) and The Bahamas Department of Meteorology has issued a hurricane warning for the Turks and Caicos Islands. A hurricane warning means that hurricane conditions, with winds of 74mph and above, are expected in the next 24-36 hours.
Tourism officials are urging visitors to leave the Turks and Caicos if they have the means to do so safely. Visitors unable to leave or opting to remain within the destination are urged to stay inside during the storm.
Emergency officials are also preparing to respond to severe flooding as Hurricane Matthew is expected to produce two to five inches of rainfall with isolated maximum amounts of eight inches over the Turks and Caicos Islands. Numerous hotels throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands are built to safely accommodate people during the event of a hurricane. The main goal is to keep everyone safe. Visitors are reminded that the safest place to be during the storm is inside.
Tourism officials stress that there is ample time for visitors to leave the Turks and Caicos Islands in a calm and orderly manner. Immigration services will remain in place at the Providenciales International Airport (PLS) to ensure that flights are allowed to travel to and from the islands until a decision are taken to close the airports throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands has requested all essentials services to remain in place throughout the storm. In the event of an emergency, visitors are asked to follow management’s protocol at their respective resort or call 911.
For further updates on potential storm threats and safety tips, kindly visit the website of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) at www.gov.tc/ddme. You may also follow DDME via Twitter: @DDME.TC or Facebook: www.facebook.com/TCI.DDME.
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About the Turks and Caicos Islands
Home to the Best Beach in the World, breathtaking hues from inviting waters, and legendary diving, snorkeling and fishing, the Turks and Caicos Islands beckon you to an undiscovered Caribbean. The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of 40 islands and cays, eight of which are inhabited. World class hotels, spas, and restaurants await; as do our famous stretches of uncrowded beaches and vibrant coral reefs. On land or below the water, you’ll relax in the unique serenity, hospitality and beauty of our islands.
For more information call 1-(800) 241-0824 or visit www.turksandcaicostourism.com. Follow the Turks and Caicos Islands on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
