Following an explosion at the CCCL explosives store that has caused massive damage to the Providence Industrial area and the surrounding areas and major destruction caused by flooding due to heavy rains, the President has declared a State of Emergency for today the 7th December.

Everyone is being asked to stay at home. All schools will be closed. Only workers in the essential services and persons travelling will be allowed free movement.

This is to allow the emergency services to carry out essential work. Owners of businesses in the Providence area are asked to contact ACP Desnousse on 2523511 to have access to the industrial estate.

The public are asked to co-operate with the police.