Authorities on Virgin Gorda are urging residents and visitors to avoid the roadway between North Sound and Valley due to severe flood damage and erosion that has made the route hazardous. The Ministry of Communications and Works issued the travel warning early this morning after assessing the impacts of recent heavy rains in the area.
“Due to severe flooding and erosion, the roadway between North Sound and Valley on the island of Virgin Gorda is currently in a hazardous condition,” stated the Ministry. “The public and motorists are advised to avoid this area until further notice.”
Photos in circulation from the scene show significant washouts and undercutting of the road from floodwaters. Large debris piles and mud cover portions of the road.
Ministry officials say limited to no travel is recommended along the affected stretch until an “all clear” can be given and repairs made.
“If travel is absolutely necessary, extreme caution is advised when traversing the area,” the warning states. Drivers are urged to find alternate routes for the time being to avoid putting themselves at risk.
The Ministry has recommended actions for the public, including avoiding the flooded and eroded section between North Sound and Valley altogether, monitoring news and official communications for updates, planning alternate routes if travel is essential, and exercising extreme vigilance if driving through unavoidably.
A timeline was not provided for reopening the route.
“The public’s cooperation and patience are appreciated during this time,” the statement concluded.
Heavy rains from a slow-moving system have caused widespread flooding across the Virgin Islands.
Residents and visitors are urged to avoid any non-essential travel, heed all warnings and instructions from authorities, and have supplies ready in case of extended road closures or utility outages.