Preparation prevented battering from Hurricane Erin

Communication and Works Minister Kye Rymer has applauded the BVI’s preparedness efforts, saying this helped significantly reduce the impact of Hurricane Erin, which passed approximately 100 miles north of the territory at Category 5 strength last week.

“While the centre of the storm did not pass directly over our islands, we experienced sustained rainfall and intermittent gusts that tested our systems and readiness. In Road Town alone, over nine inches of rain fell, placing strain on our drainage systems and contributing to localised impacts across several districts,” Minister Rymer said at a press conference on August 18.

He noted that proactive measures, including gut clearing, road preparation, and coordination among agencies, allowed a swift response to the storm’s effects. Some of the impacts included minor landslides, road washouts in low-lying areas, fallen trees, and hillside debris, which required rapid cleanup to keep roads and access routes safe.

On Tortola, several areas, including Sabbath Hill, Joe’s Hill, Treadfalls, Jennings Hill, and Nottingham Estate, experienced pipeline exposures and road damage. Repair works include regrading road bases, drainage improvements, and concreting of damaged roads.

At Nottingham Estate, a fractured pipeline is being relaid, while Jennings Hill is undergoing rehabilitation with cement wall designs and costing in progress. Minister Rymer emphasised that the estimated cost for these mitigation and repair works has reached $66,500 so far.

According to the minister, power and water interruptions occurred at several locations but were quickly resolved as the Public Works Department and district response teams provided real-time monitoring, coordinated interventions, and operational leadership alongside the Department of Disaster Management.

“Early interventions prevented more severe damage, and we recorded an 85 percent improvement in operational readiness compared to previous rainfall events,” Minister Rymer said. “Some districts even achieved zero-cost interventions through collaborative partnerships. Our preparedness efforts significantly reduced the potential for greater damage, and recovery works are ongoing to restore critical services as quickly as possible.”

He added that documentation from this response will guide future policies, helping the BVI remain resilient during hurricane season while protecting lives, infrastructure, and essential services.