Preparation for Melissa Ramps Up Across TCI
- NewslineTCI
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Preparations for Tropical Storm Melissa are in high gear across the Turks and Caicos Islands as government agencies, private partners, and regional providers coordinate efforts to ensure the country is ready for potential impact.
A multi-agency strategy—engaging the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME), Public Works Department (PWD), Ministry of Health, Telecommunications Commission, Ports Authority, Airports Authority, and private utility companies—is driving national readiness and strengthening post-storm response capacity.
The update was delivered Monday, October 27, 2025, during a news conference at the Office of the Governor, Cabot House, along Leeward Highway in Providenciales, where Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, Hon. Arlington Musgrove, outlined readiness measures underway across the islands.
Grand Turk
On Grand Turk, Minister Musgrove revealed that all generators are fueled, tested, and operational. Drains and wells have been cleared, and storm canal gates secured to manage runoff. Pump stations at Andrea Francis and West Road are staffed and functional. Public buildings, including the Wellness Centre and Centre of Hope, are being secured, and shelters are ready for activation. Environmental and medical teams are pre-positioned for immediate post-impact response.
Providenciales
On Providenciales, Minister Musgrove noted that shelters are prepared, and new generators are being installed at key government sites. Wells and drains, particularly in Five Cays and Leeward Palms, have been cleared. He pointed out that Contractors and heavy equipment remain on standby for debris removal.
He said the Airports Authority has activated its hurricane procedures; and potential closures of airports will depend on wind conditions and be announced officially. The Ports Authority has begun storm operations, lowering containers and coordinating the clearance of cargo with shipping agents.
North & Middle Caicos
He pointed out that the Department of Disaster Management and Emergency (DDME) and the Public Works Department (PWD) report that all primary shelters are structurally sound and operational, with generators tested.
On North Caicos, Minister Musgrove said repairs to the Bottle Creek shelter roof was continuing, with alternative accommodations identified for vulnerable persons. He said drains have been cleared across both islands with minimal debris. He pointed out that additional generators are enroute, and medical facilities have storm supply boxes ready.
He asserted that coordination among DDME, PWD, and Environmental Health are being done to ensure that all community facilities are safe and functional.
South Caicos
On South Caicos, Musgrove highlighted that all generators have been fueled, tested, and confirmed operational. Fixed drainage pumps are ready, and assigned personnel are on standby. Shelters have been verified as ready. He said the District Commissioner has requested additional manpower and vehicle support, which he said was currently being addressed. He said the PWD is arranging reinforcement during and after the storm.
Salt Cay
On Salt Cay, Minister Musgrove addressed that generators have been fueled, tested, and are operational. Drainage works on the west side of the bridge are underway to ensure proper water flow back to sea, while key buildings are being secured.
He said the Public Works Department has activated call-off contracts to facilitate post-storm cleanup and support restoration efforts.
In the meantime, Minister Musgrove urged residents across the Turks and Caicos Islands to take Melissa seriously and finalize their emergency preparations.
“I urge all residents across the Turks and Caicos Islands to prepare and not take for granted the possible impact of the storm. May you and your families remain safe.”