VITEMA Cautions Residents About Heat Index and Hurricane Season

Daryl Jaschen, director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency, opened the Government House weekly press briefing with a warning about an extraordinarily high-temperature forecast — between 102-107 degrees.

“The National Weather Service, I talked to about 30 minutes ago, has reported that St. Croix has already reached the heat index of 105 degrees today, as of Monday, the fifth of June. If you have been outside you can confirm what I’m telling you,” said Jaschen.

In addition to hot weather, Sahara dust will affect the territory through the weekend. Those with respiratory illness should watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It is important to hydrate, stay cool with light clothing and stay inside, he said. People with symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, high body temperature and confusion should seek medical attention immediately.

The director also presented a thorough briefing on hurricane preparation and readiness for residents by government agencies.

June 1 marked the beginning of hurricane season, which ends Nov. 30. NOAA’s forecast for this year is “near normal,” with 12-17 tropical storms, five to nine hurricanes and between one and four major hurricanes, categorized as winds of 110 miles per hour or greater.