The Ministry of Communications and Works is fully aware of the unexpected and severe flooding that has occurred across the Virgin Islands territory today. Heavy rainfall has led to widespread flash flooding in various parts of the islands, causing significant disruptions to traffic and infrastructure, as well as impacting homes and businesses.

The construction of the new National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) in McNamara, Tortola is progressing, with the concrete roof pour now complete.

The Virgin Islands community is urged to assist the Public Works Department (PWD) in its cleanup campaign following the damage caused by Tropical Storm Phillipe.

Madam Speaker, I wish to inform you and the public that Tropical Storm Philippe caused significant damage to the Beautiful Virgin Islands when it made landfall on October 3rd, 2023. The storm brought approximately eight (8) inches of rain, resulting in overwhelming amounts of mud and debris in our ghuts and our waterways. Fallen trees, boulders, and mud have also blocked roads and drains across the territory.

The Government of the Virgin Islands has received US$552,297 from the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF) to assist in recovery efforts following the passage of Tropical Storm Philippe on October 4.

The public is advised that as of 8:00 a.m.,October 23, the National Emergency Operations Centre has been de-activated.

Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye Rymer led a delegation through several areas of Road Town to assess the drainage situation ahead of Tropical Storm Tammy.

Good afternoon to all the people of the Virgin Islands. I especially welcome those persons present with us and those joining on the airwaves and via the Internet, and members of the media.

The public is notified that the Ivan Dawson Primary School campus has reopened and students are to report for normal in-person classes today Monday, 9^th October. 

The Ministry of Communications and Works is continuing its clean-up and rehabilitation efforts of the road and ghut network through the Public Works Department (PWD).