UK SHIPS TO CONDUCT HURRICANE RESPONSE EXERCISE FROM SUNDAY, AUGUST 16TH
Written by Fuze Team on August 13, 2020
United Kingdom (UK) ships RFA Argus and HMS Medway will be conducting a hurricane response exercise on Norman Island on Sunday 16 and Monday 17, August.
The Governor’s Office announced that the exercise will allow the UK Task Group to practice their response to any damage that a hurricane could cause, which includes delivering humanitarian aid and disaster relief by landing people and essential supplies ashore in order to support the people of the British Virgin Islands.
Deputy to the Governor, David Archer, said due to the pandemic, this year’s hurricane season presents an unprecedented challenge and preparation is more important than ever.
Archer said this exercise will ensure that if the Territory requires extra help after a storm, the crew onboard RFA Argus and HMS Medway can effectively respond in a way that protects public health and meets their greatest needs and as always, the safety and security of the people of the British Virgin Islands is a top priority.”
Royal Navy Commander Kate Muir, Head of the UK Task Group, said they are well-positioned and prepared to offer support to BVI in the aftermath of a hurricane if it is needed.
Muir said, as with any activity, they become more effective each time they practice, which is why she is grateful to the Governor and the Premier to have this chance to exercise on Norman Island.
The two ships will carry emergency aid from the UK’s Department for International Development. This includes food, water, sanitation products and medical supplies, along with equipment that can help clear and repair some of the damage.
The ships will enter Territorial waters on Thursday, August 13 and anyone going ashore in the exercise will be tested for COVID-19 by the Task Force’s medical team, and their samples will be flown via helicopter to Tortola for testing on Thursday.
Only once the BVI Health Service Authority has confirmed that all tests are negative for COVID-19 will the team be able to depart the ship.
Strict safety measures are in place for the exercise and the crew has been working closely with the Governor’s Office, the Premier’s Office and the Ministry of Health to ensure full compliance with the Territory’s COVID-19 measures.
