The US Virgin Islands have notoriously gotten little press in comparison to stateside shore locations. Having lived on island for four years, I have experienced my share, actually all I care to encounter. Stateside family members and friends were terribly concerned as so little news was forthcoming and phone lines invariably went down during the storm.
Hurricanes are a real threat and one should heed warnings as they are issued. Islanders prepare for the season before it's beginning, June 1. What staples are left after November 30, the end of Hurricane season, can be integrated into daily life. Visitors, of course, need not worry about elaborate preparation. Most storms occur during August and September, with the majority in the latter.
The storms form off the eastern coast of Africa. Tropical winds and warm water nurture the fledgling storm and carry it along a very circuitous route. Most storms that roll off the coast do not become a hurricane. For it to earn that classification, it must sustain winds of over 71 miles per hour. For those that do transform into a hurricane, many of those do not make land; instead take a course out to sea.
Hurricanes that do track toward land are closely monitored. As there are many days between its first sighting and its potential to hit land, residents and visitors have time to prepare. Most islanders will implement their "Hurricane Plan" which is to board windows, make sure enough supplies are on hand and the generator is working properly.
Hotels post warnings and visitors are advised well in advance of the hurricane status and it's potential threat. Should evacuation be advised, visitors will have enough time to contact their airline for arrangements. By this time, airlines have already implemented their own hurricane preparedness plan. Should you desire to depart before the storm hits, be aware that due to Federal Regulations, the airport must be closed 24 hours prior to its estimated time of arrival.
Due to the strength and duration of a storm, some visitors stay on island and ride it out. Much of the hotel management and a skeleton staff will remain on property throughout the hurricane and will be available to guests and any needs that may arise. The largest concern are broken windows. Guests are advised to pack their belongings and keep essential items in a small bag ready to go should they need to change rooms. Significant items would consist of: eyeglasses, prescriptions, keys, identification, wallet and purse.
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