Fire Forces Temporary Closure of VG Dumpsite

A fire at the Virgin Gorda Dumpsite has forced its temporary closure as emergency crews work to bring the blaze under control.

According to the Government Information Service (GIS), the fire broke out during the early hours of Friday, July 3, prompting a coordinated response involving the Department of Waste Management, the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service, the BVI Airports Authority, the Water and Sewerage Department and local water truck operators.

GIS said firefighters remain on the scene carrying out suppression operations and securing the area to protect nearby residents, infrastructure and surrounding properties.

As a precaution, the Virgin Gorda Dumpsite has been closed to the public until further notice while emergency response efforts continue.

According to GIS, smoke from the burning waste is releasing airborne particulates and potentially hazardous fumes into surrounding areas, prompting health officials to urge residents to avoid the site.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development advised residents, particularly those with asthma, chronic respiratory illnesses, heart conditions, young children and the elderly, to remain indoors where possible and limit exposure to the smoke.

Residents in affected areas are also being encouraged to keep windows and doors closed, set air conditioning units to recirculate indoor air, avoid strenuous outdoor activity and wear an N95 or KN95 mask if they must go outside.

GIS further advised anyone experiencing difficulty breathing, severe coughing, dizziness, nausea or worsening heart or lung conditions to seek immediate medical attention at the Iris O'Neal Medical Center.

The Ministry said the safety of residents, emergency personnel and the surrounding community remains its highest priority and that agencies will continue monitoring the situation until normal operations can safely resume.