The National Emergency Operations Centre has been deactivated, officials announced on Monday evening.
The decision was made by Acting Governor Rosalie Adams after consultation with the Department of Disaster Management, according to Government Information Services.
The NEOC went on alert at 8:11 a.m. on Aug. 7 following a tropical wave advisory from the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services, which forecasts weather for the Virgin Islands.
The VI was subsequently placed under flash flood warning due to the intensity of the weather system, and it recorded peak rainfall intensities at 11 p.m. that day.
ABMS Director Keithley Meade explained that the tropical wave combined with another weather system to bring the heavy rainfall.
“Sometimes tropical waves encounter trough systems which enhance the wave resulting in much more cloudiness, showers and thunderstorm activity than you would normally have, and that is what happened across the BVI,” he said, adding, “On average we have three tropical waves crossing the Atlantic per week, generally producing a few showers and gusty winds.”
After the flooding, the territory mobilised emergency services to respond to impacted communities and individuals.
“We have since transitioned into the recovery process, promoting the involvement and empowerment of key stakeholders and volunteers across agencies, sectors and the entire community,” said DDM Director Sharleen DaBreo.
The recovery process, led by the Office of the Premier with support from the DDM and other ministries, is now focusing on examining the impacts of the damage caused by the system.
The DDM is urging residents to remain vigilant throughout the hurricane season, which ends on Nov. 30.
Other tropical waves are predicted to affect the territory this week, starting with scattered showers and thunderstorms today and into tonight.
Residents are encouraged to finalise their hurricane preparations, ensuring that they have an emergency supplies kit; a battery-operated radio; non-perishable foods; and water.
For more information go to www.bviddm.com or the Facebook page BVI DDM.
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