The Tobago Emergency Agency (TEMA) has been hard at work assessing the damage caused by Hurricane Beryl, which struck Tobago on July 1. As of July 3, TEMA has already received over 200 reports of damage across the island.
Director Allan Stewart mentioned that the focus of restoration efforts is primarily on the north side of the island, including areas like Mason Hall, Moriah, Castara, L’Anse Fourmi, Bloody Bay, and Parlatuvier. Stewart reported that most of the damage reported so far has been related to fallen trees and utility poles.
With the Tobago Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis Task Force on the ground, made up of officials from TEMA, the THA’s Division of Infrastructure, the TTDF, and the Division of Settlements, Public Utilities, and Rural Development, progress is being made in gathering information from affected residents. This data will be used to provide appropriate assistance through relevant State and/or THA agencies.
According to Stewart, the main focus currently is on clearing fallen trees from residential properties and repairing damaged structures. The majority of utility issues have already been resolved, with only a few isolated cases that require further inspection and connection.
Notably, the lack of electricity has also affected schools in the area. As a result, the Division of Education has announced closures for several schools until further notice, including Pentecostal Light and Life Foundation High School in Scarborough.
