All Clear Issued for Little Cayman & Cayman Brac After Paloma

The Cayman Islands government issued the following statement on Nov. 9 after the island was hit by Hurricane Paloma:

As Hurricane Paloma passed the Cayman Islands last night, the All Clear for the Sister Islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman was issued. In the wake of Paloma, Grand Cayman returns to business as usual today, the business of tranquil seas and plenty of sunshine.

Owen Roberts International Airport re-opened for business yesterday, November 8, for all inbound and outbound flights. All travelers are urged to confirm their reservations with their airlines and accommodations prior to arrival. Hotels on the island are currently accepting reservations and new guests.

"It is essentially business as usual in Grand Cayman and we look forward to once again welcoming visitors to our idyllic island destination," said the Cayman Islands Minister of Tourism, Hon. Charles E. Clifford. "Damage assessment continues in Cayman Brac and Little Cayman," added Minister Clifford. "Our first priority is to provide for the safety and basic needs of our fellow citizens on the Sister Islands."

Minister Clifford will be flying to Cayman Brac today, Sunday November 9, from Grand Cayman. "While Paloma passed 30 miles away from Grand Cayman, sparing us, it strengthened considerably before it hit the Sister Islands."

Initial assessment efforts currently underway in Cayman Brac indicate that the Gerrard Smith Airport should be able to accommodate jet aircraft traffic at some point today.

Government officials and people of the Cayman Islands keep in mind the people of Cuba who last night experienced Paloma, along with the other neighboring countries that remain in the path of the storm."