Commissioner of Police Michael B. Matthews. Photo: VINO/File

Tropical storm warnings were issued for Puerto Rico and the United States and British Virgin Islands Today, September 23, 2019, as Tropical Storm Karen moved northwest through the Caribbean Sea. Photo: AccuWeather

“The force has a contingency plan for the storm season which includes the early placement of additional officers at key locations in advance of any storm arriving,” the Top Cop told Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), during invited comments.

According to the commissioner, “Our priority is to ensure public safety and security both during and post any impact. In this regard, the public can expect to see additional patrols and visible presence across the Territory.”

Now tracking across the Caribbean with a forecasted turn to the north, TS Karen had brought flooded streets, downed trees and power outages to the islands of Tobago and Tobago on Sunday morning.

According to the Tobago Emergency Management Agency's Facebook page, heavy flooding was reported in Scarborough and South Western Tobago. The agency also said people were trapped in flooded homes with additional media reports citing seven families trapped on the second floor of homes in flood-affected areas.

Cop Matthews noted, “Should the territory experience flooding or damage my officers will work alongside the other emergency responders to protect life and property.”

Take Precaution - Mr Archer 

Meanwhile, acting Governor Mr David D. Archer Jr in a statement released yesterday urged residents especially those in low-lying areas to take precaution.

"If you are in a low-lying area, along the coastline or other areas prone to flooding, now is the time to decide on the measures you will take to protect your property and belongings.  Also, decide if you need to temporarily take shelter with friends or family".