Hurricane Shelter Locations Announced; VITEMA Tracking Tropical Storm Isaac

2018 Hurricane Season Shelter Locations
The following facilities have been identified as shelters for the 2018 Hurricane Season. Based on the event, VITEMA will determine which shelter locations will be opened to receive the public.

St. Croix:
• St. Croix Educational Complex
• Claude O. Markoe Elementary School
• Department of Human Services Frederiksted Head Start
• Central High School
• DC Canegata Complex

St. Thomas:
• Lockhart Elementary School
• Charlotte Amalie High School Auditorium
• Bertha B. Boschulte School
• Knud Hansen Complex (STRIVE)

St. John
• Julius Sprauve School

The Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Isaac for any potential impact it may have on the territory.

“My staff and I are continuing to work closely with our partners at the National Weather Service located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to ensure we receive real-time updates on the progress of the storm,” said VITEMA Director Mona L. Barnes.

As VITEMA continues to coordinate the territory’s preparedness with local and federal partners, residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands are advised to prepare based on your current situation. Residents are also advised to:

• Make a family disaster plan that addresses the needs of everyone in the home including pets and persons with access and functional needs. Ensure disaster plans are communicated with everyone in your household.
• Build an emergency supply kit with enough essential items for up to 10 days. We recommend including items such as water, nonperishable foods, first-aid kit, medication, battery operated radio, pet food and games for children.
• Stay informed about weather systems that may impact the U.S.V.I. using credible sources of information. Closely monitor radio stations and receive real-time updates on Alert VI, the territory’s emergency notification system. You can register for Alert VI by visiting the VITEMA website at www.vitema.vi.gov.

“Our partners at FEMA have confirmed plans to launch their Incident Management Assistance Team (IMAT) early next week,” said Barnes. “We will continue to do everything in our power to ensure we are prepared for the possible impact of Tropical Storm Isaac.”