Virgin Gorda dumpsite closed as fire continues to burn

The Virgin Gorda dumpsite remains closed to the public as crews work to contain a fire that began around noon on Saturday, September 26, the Ministry of Health and Social Development said.

In a release issued on Sunday, the ministry said the Department of Waste Management was coordinating the response with the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service and private contractors. Crews had smothered sections of the fire, but it kept burning and producing significant smoke.

The Health Ministry said responders worked well into Saturday night, and it expected a larger coordinated effort to resume on Sunday. It did not give a date for reopening the site.

Residents should stay away from the dumpsite while crews and equipment are working there, the ministry said. It also advised people in surrounding areas to remain indoors as much as possible and keep their doors and windows closed while smoke persists.

People with asthma, other respiratory illnesses or cardiovascular conditions should take additional precautions to limit their exposure, the ministry said. It gave the same advice for infants, young children and older adults.

The ministry urged residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor physical activity while smoke remains in the area. Anyone experiencing difficulty breathing, severe coughing, dizziness, nausea or a worsening respiratory or cardiovascular condition should seek medical attention, it said.

The site was also temporarily closed after a fire in early July. It reopened on July 9 after emergency crews contained that blaze. The ministry said it would continue to monitor the current fire and provide further updates as response efforts progress.