Travel agent Wayne Beard is urging trade colleagues to help local people in Cape Verde after the islands were badly hit by Storm Erin.
Seven locals, including four children, died in São Vicente, according to Cape Verde’s Ministry of Education, and the area has suffered significant flood damage.
Pure Joy Escapes Managing Director Wayne, who is holidaying on Boa Vista at the Riu Karamboa with family and friends, told Travel Gossip Storm Erin hit Boa Vista around 6.30pm on Sunday (10 August).
Wayne said: “We were in a speciality restaurant when the storm started. The power tripped twice, and water came in through the patio doors.
“Once we left, the hotel had put sandbags around the complex and worried-looking staff were brushing water away from many areas of the hotel.”
He added: “The storm was severe, having witnessed many storms around the world, this was the strongest and longest, with torrential rain and high winds.”
Wayne also heard thunder and saw lightning on Sunday evening. He said the Riu Karamboa was flooded.
“On Monday, it was noticeable that the amount of fewer staff around the hotel. Staff looked worried.” he added.
It was when Wayne had booked a tour to see turtles lay their eggs last night (Monday 11 August), he learnt how devastating Storm Erin had been for locals.
His guide spoke of devastation in São Vicente and Boa Vista. “[They said] people had lost their homes due to the rain waters and high winds. Some of the workers on Boa Vista live on São Vicente.”
On Monday, Wayne posted on Facebook to say: “Last night, a severe storm hit the Cape Verde Islands, leaving families homeless and numerous deaths reported.
“I ask any agent friends who have customers coming here to bring a little something to help the locals, clothes and toiletries, no matter how small.”
Enjoy Boa Vista Owner Andrew Worthington has set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for aid relief for locals affected by Storm Erin. Click here to donate. Alternatively, holidaymakers can also donate clothes, toiletries and other resources in person to the excursion company owner.
A TUI spokesperson told Travel Gossip customers and flights haven’t been affected by the storm on Cape Verde.
Storm Erin is moving west towards to the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean Sea and could turn into a major hurricane.
The National Hurricane Centre said: “It is still too early to determine what impacts, if any, Erin will bring to the northern Leeward Islands, Bermuda or the east coast of the United States.
“As we approach the climatological peak of the hurricane season, it is an opportune time to ensure your preparedness plans are in place.”
Images were taken by a local guide who has distributed them to raise awareness.
