BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew on Saturday heightened disaster preparedness efforts following the growing threat of Hurricane Tammy.

“Our national security apparatus is fully prepared to provide the highest level of protection for our citizens. We owe a debt of gratitude to these dedicated individuals who put the welfare of our nation above all else,” Drew stated.

“Your Government is committed to ensuring that the resources required for our national response efforts are readily available. We have faith in the National Disaster Mechanism to manage any crisis that may arise within our beautiful Federation,” he added.

In its 2:00 pm update, the Miami-based National Hurricane Center said that strong winds and heavy rains are spreading across portions of the Leeward Islands.

Tammy is moving toward the northwest near 8 mph (13 km/h), and this general motion is expected to continue through Saturday night.

A turn toward the north-northwest is forecasted for Sunday, followed by a turn toward the north on Monday.

On the forecast track, the centre of Tammy will move near or over portions of the Leeward Islands through early Sunday, and then move north of the northern Leeward Islands by Sunday afternoon.

Maximum sustained winds are near 85 mph (140 km/h) with higher gusts.

Fluctuations in intensity are possible during the next few days, but Tammy is expected to remain a hurricane while it passes near or over the Leeward Islands.

Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 25 miles (35 km) from the centre and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 125 miles (205 km). The estimated central pressure is 988 mb (29.18 inches).

Tropical storm conditions are possible on Martinique, the British Virgin Islands Saturday night and Sunday.

“In times like these, let us remember to give thanks to Almighty God and seek His protection and guidance. We pray that He will keep us safe as we weather the storm together,” the prime minister said.