BANKS AND SOME GOVERNMENT OFFICES CLOSED MONDAY Commercial banks and some Government offices in Providenciales were forced to close on Monday August 25th, as the Turks and Caicos Islands continued to be swamped by the after-effects of tropical storm Cristobal. Deputy Governor Hon. Anya Williams who is in charge of the Civil Service, said in a press statement that due to the heavy passage of rain on the island of Providenciales, extensive flooding is being reported in several areas including the downtown area, which at the moment remains inaccessible from both South Dock and Blue Hills. “All pumps throughout the island are in operation and GSS staff have been working throughout the weekend on these areas. However, as it will take some time for the pumps to resolve the flooding issues in these areas most especially the downtown area, staff in the following buildings are being asked not to report to work:- Butterfield Square- Sam Harvey BuildingOnce an all clear has been given in this area, unit heads will be notified and will be requested to visit these sites to ascertain the state and security of TCIG property,” the Deputy Governor said. The Sam Harvey Building houses the Immigration, Labour and Registration departments, while Butterfield Square accommodates the Post Office, the Treasury, Planning Department and Revenue Control. “I urge all other staff to take the necessary precautions in traveling on the roadways in Providenciales today to ensure your continued safety.” A statement from the Bankers Association of the Turks and Caicos Islands advised the general public that all banks are closed today. “We are monitoring the situation closely and will advise once banks return to normal operating hours. We ask that all persons be cautious and keep safe during this time,” the bankers said. In a press release issued Sunday, Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing cautioned all citizens to be safe and to “remain indoors as much as possible”, as the Turks and Caicos Islands continue to experience heavy rains, wind gusts and extensive flooding in low lying areas, especially on the islands of Middle and North Caicos. “The inclement weather is expected to linger for another forty-eight hours and the flooding is expected to worsen as a result,” Premier Ewing said. “Take every precaution to elevate and protect critical papers and other valuables, but most of all take all precaution to protect your lives, those of your loved ones, neighbors and friends.” The Premier said Government officials of the Department of Disaster Management will be surveying our communities when it is safe to do so, and ensuring all is well in due course. Cristobal starting affecting the Turks and Caicos Islands since Friday night with gusty winds and light but steady showers that caused flooding in several areas, intermittent power outages and the cancellation of several domestic and international flights. Although Cristobal was churning away from The Bahamas on Monday morning, blinding rains continued to douse the Turks and Caicos Islands. The tide was choppy around Providenciales, causing beaches along the world-famous Grace Bay to be void of tourists. Several trees were stripped of their leaves and plants bended and swayed under the force of the squally winds.
Posted on: Mon, 25 Aug 2014 13:22:07 +0000
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