As the territory struggles to recover from the worst flooding in recent memory, more rain could be on the way.
The agency added that the dangers of more rain are exacerbated because the ground is saturated from the flooding on Monday and Tuesday that badly damaged roads, electric poles and buildings as an estimated 17 inches of rain fell in 17 hours.
Across the territory, the Public Works Department continues to dig out streets and sidewalks alongside residents and business owners.
The Ministry of Communications and Works announced Thursday that “all major roads are generally passable,” but warned drivers to proceed with caution and to avoid Joes Hill Road, which was badly damaged.
Meanwhile, all national parks have reopened except for the children’s area of the Queen Elizabeth II Park on Tortola and Spring Bay National Park Beach on Virgin Gorda.
Damage assessments are under way by the BVI Red Cross and other groups, according to a statement Premier Dr. Orlando Smith issued on Wednesday.
The same day, then-acting Governor Robert Mathavious has urged the territory assist those in need.
“The teams from Water and Sewerage, Public Works Department, BVI Electricity Corporation and telecommunications providers have been working consistently to rectify outstanding issues,” Mr. Mathavious said.
He assured residents that further assistance eventually will be provided to clear debris and fallen structures that have blocked doorways and pathways around their properties.
“As you can imagine, resources are stretched and may take some time before crews can be deployed to provide support,” he said. “So in the meantime, I encourage you to assist your neighbours and those in your immediate communities to begin to clean up your surroundings until additional assistance can be provided. Our crews must clear the main roadways first, then they can proceed to work on the feeder roads.”
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