Minister of National Security Stuart Young has said at this time there is no need to call for a shut down of the country due to Tropical Storm Karen.
Karen became a Tropical storm shortly before 5 am this morning.
During a Press Conference at the National Security Ministry's Temple Court office, Young said the storm had done some damage to Tobago but had shown some signs of deterioration.
"At this stage there is no need for us to make a decision as to a shut down of Trinidad and Tobago for tomorrow," he said however they would continue to monitor the storm if anything changes. "That announcement will be made later today one way or another," he said.
The Minister said police and other emergency services had been deployed in Tobago, where flooding had been suffered. He said 22 of 24 T&TEC vehicles were moved from the flooded compound.
Minister of Works Rohan Sinanan said the Public Service Transport Corporation was put on alert to transport persons from areas affected by flooding.
"Manual buses that can go through the water to some extent. We would have identified these buses and have them relocated to certain areas so if we need to call on them they will be readily available in different points of the island," said Sinanan.
Minister of Local Government Kazim Hosein said all regional corporations have been put on alert.
"We have taken an all of corporation approach, so if Sangre Grande is affected and Point is not affected we will mobilise and assist every corporation that is affected," he said,"Most of the shelters are ready and willing to open at any time called upon."
Minister of Health Terrence Deyalsingh said all health facilities, particularly those in the Eastern Regional Health Authority had been placed on alert following the formation of the storm.
He, however, warned those affected by floods, not to handle dead animals in floodwaters due to the possible threat of leptospirosis.