ST. KITTS-WEATHER - Emergency services activated in St.Kitts Nevis in preparation for heavy rains.

BASSETERRE -- Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has activated all emergency services in preparation for the arrival of severe weather.

In an address to the nation on Saturday, the Prime Minister said the federation has heightened disaster preparedness efforts, 'recognising 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,' the Prime Minister noted.

'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.'

In it's 2:00pm (local time) update, the Miami based National Hurricane Centre 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 tonight.

A turn toward the north-northwest is then forecast on Sunday, followed by a turn toward the north on Monday. On the forecast track, the center 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 highergusts.

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 center 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 expected within the tropical storm warning areas today and tonight, and hurricane conditions are possible in the hurricane watch areas through tonight.

Tropical storm conditions are possible on Martinique today and the British Virgin Islands tonight and Sunday.

'In times like these, let us remember to give thanks to Almighty God...