The public is urged to remain off of the roads in the interim to allow the public works department to continue clearing roads.
Statement from Acting Governor David D Archer Jr
“Even after the rains have passed, Public Works crews and others will need time to assess the full extent of the damage done. The Acting Premier and I have been briefed by key personnel from the Department of Disaster Management as well as key response agencies in police, health and fire. To allow responders to do their work clearing the roads and assisting any persons who may be in danger, persons should remain home at this time unless they are in need of immediate medical attention.”
Update from Acting Premier Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE
“In light of the flash flood warning and the water’s impact on Territory roads, it is crucial for persons to stay off the roads and remain indoors until conditions improve. Schools have been closed for today, and the Acting Governor has closed non-essential Government offices. These decisions have been takes to ensure the safety of all Virgin Islands residents and visitors.We will continue to update residents with the guidance of the Department Disaster Management. Please remain vigilant, stay safe and dry, and monitor the airwaves and social media for further government updates.”
(June 6th, 11:30 am) FLASH FLOOD WARNING DISCONTINUED FOR THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
Flash flood warning has been discontinued for the Virgin Islands. Weather conditions are expected to improve as the day progresses.
Residents are being asked to be cautious as they move about.
Motorists should also be careful on the roadways as debris and rockfalls along with land slippage could still be present.
(June 6th, 9:00 am) AVOID NON-ESSENTIAL ROAD TRAVEL UNTIL SHOWERS SUBSIDE
The Virgin Islands is currently under a flash flood warning and experiencing heavy downpours and thunderstorms in some areas.
The public is urged to stay off the roads until showers subside, which forecasters expect will be a little later this morning.
Flooding in low-lying areas, rock falls and other road hazards are possible. Additional updates will be forthcoming as needed.
( June 6th, 8:30 am) Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services has issued a Flash Flood Warning for low-lying and flood-prone areas of the British Virgin Islands until 10:30 AM, Thursday, June 6th, 2024.
Meteorologists warn that moderate to major flooding is occurring or imminent across the territory due to a lingering trough system that has already dumped up to 3 inches of heavy rainfall in some areas over the past 24 hours. With the ground saturated, an additional 2 or more inches of rain expected in the next 6 hours is likely to cause dangerous flash flooding.
(June 5th, 5:20 pm) A flash flood advisory was issued for the BVI by the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services and will remain in effect until 8:30 pm, June 5th 2024.
A flood advisory means that streams, creeks and drains may be elevated or even overflowing into streets, low lying and flood prone areas; however, property damage will be minimal.
Inconveniences can be expected but the flooding is not expected to be immediately life-threatening.
A persistent trough over the northeast Caribbean is influencing the weather over the BVI, causing periodic heavy showers.
Original Article:
“TORRENTIAL RAINS TRIGGER FLOOD CONCERNS IN THE TERRITORY”
(June 5th, 5:00 pm) The Department of Disaster Management has issued an urgent update regarding the current weather conditions in the territory. According to the latest report, the BVI has been hit with just over an inch of rainfall within the last hour. The heavy downpour is expected to persist until 7 pm, raising concerns about potential flooding.
The substantial amount of rainfall in such a short period has elevated the risk of water levels rising in low-lying areas, which could lead to localized flooding.
Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution while commuting during these adverse weather conditions. Drivers are advised to reduce their speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid driving through standing water, as it can be difficult to gauge the depth and current.
The Department of Disaster Management is closely monitoring the situation.