Remain vigilant! Premier says BVI was ‘spared from serious damage’ as flash floods drench PR

As media reports surfacing that Tropical Storm Isaias drenched the neighbouring island of Puerto Rico with ‘life threatening flash floods and gusty winds’ Premier Andrew Fahie has said the BVI was “spared from serious damage”.

In that vein, the Premier has reiterated calls for residents to remain at the ready as the peak of the 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season draws closer.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Premier Fahie said: “Given the forecast rainfall amounts and wind speeds experienced in St Martin and Puerto Rico, we know that flooding and other damages were a real possibility as this system passed us. I thank God for the dedicated preparatory work carried out by many of our government agencies to help mitigate the impact on lives and property. I also thank you the people for doing your part to prepare and be ready.”

He continued: “I know that every one of you from my fellow members of the House of Assembly, to those providers of essential and critical services who worked during the passage of Isaias; to the private sector employers who took steps to protect their businesses and staff; all the way to the persons who simply reached out to their neighbours to see how they might lend a hand with preparations; each and every one of you contributed to our territory coming safely through this storm.”

Remain vigilant!

While thanking all the essential workers who were out assessing the territory and playing their part in getting the British Virgin Islands back to a state of normalcy, Fahie reminded residents that vigilance is key.

He urged persons to think about what more needs to be done around their homes or businesses before the threat of another disaster surfaces.

“I would urge you to think carefully about what Isaias is trying to teach you and how you can move forward into the remainder of the hurricane season stronger, safer and more prepared. And for all of us returning to our routine, I hope that you will continue to be the vigilant citizens that you have shown yourselves to be in the face of a global pandemic and an active Atlantic Hurricane Season,” he said.

Fahie added: “This year it is especially important that we stay in a preparedness mode. We must continue to monitor the advisories provided by the Department of Disaster Management so that we are able to plan ahead.”