GOVERNMENT TO CONDUCT 38ᵗʰ ANNUAL HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS EXERCISE — 7 MAY 2025

Public Works Department, National Roads Authority and DVES will fit shutters on more than 100 buildings and test standby generators across Grand Cayman

GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands — 2 May 2025 — On Wednesday, 7 May 2025, hurricane shutters will be installed on more than 100 government buildings and 16 designated hurricane shelters across Grand Cayman. Residents should not be alarmed: the activity forms part of the Public Works Department (PWD), National Roads Authority (NRA) and Department of Vehicle & Equipment Services (DVES) annual Hurricane Preparedness Exercise, now in its 38ᵗʰ consecutive year.

Teams of PWD, NRA and DVES staff will secure shutters, inspect and test standby generators, and carry out detailed post-installation assessments to confirm every site is storm-ready. The exercise replicates actions that would be taken ahead of an actual storm or hurricane when the 2025 Atlantic season begins on 1 June.

Several statutory authorities will also secure their own facilities on the same day.
Joanna Virtue-Markman, Acting Director of the Public Works Department, said:
“This annual drill ensures that people, property, and critical services are as protected as possible. We encourage all residents to use the exercise as a reminder to review their own hurricane plans.”
Prepare your household now

With only a few weeks until hurricane season, residents should decide what materials they will use to cover windows and glass doors, where to obtain those materials and how to install them. Supplies become scarce once a storm or hurricane warning is issued.

If your home is unsafe during a storm, because of its proximity to the sea or sub-standard construction, identify an alternative shelter in advance. Cayman Islands Government public shelters will open on the advice of the National Hazard Management Council (NEOC) before any significant weather threat.
Official guidance: https://www.caymanprepared.gov.ky/