 The governments of the islands in the predicted path of Erika urged residents to quickly prepare for the hurricane through radio addresses . In the wake of busy seasons in 1995 and 1996 , which some islands were still recovering from , emergency preparations began . In Puerto Rico , fishermen secured their boats in preparation for the storm . Also on the island , citizens formed long lines at gas stations and purchased emergency supplies . Officials in Anguilla enacted a plan that would turn off the island 's power supply if the winds exceeded 50 mph ( 80 km / h ) . As a precaution , authorities on Saint Martin enacted a curfew for all but those in service jobs . 
