Local News
Tropical Storm Philippe Approaches the Virgin Islands – Governor Rankin Urges Preparedness
His Excellency Governor John J Rankin has issued a message to the residents of the Virgin Islands, urging them to stay vigilant and prepared as Tropical Storm Philippe approaches the territory.
Governor Rankin has been closely monitoring the development of Tropical Storm Philippe and receiving regular briefings from the team at the Department of Disaster Management (DDM). He emphasizes the importance of staying informed by following the updates provided by the DDM, which have been in close coordination with the official meteorological office in Antigua.
The meteorological office has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for the Virgin Islands, indicating the need for residents to prepare for the possibility of tropical storm conditions within the territory. Governor Rankin encourages the community to stay informed about the evolving situation.
In the latest update from the National Hurricane Centre at 2:00 p.m. today, Tropical Storm Philippe was located near latitude 19 degrees North and longitude 64.4 degrees West. The storm is currently moving northwest at a speed of about 10 miles per hour, with sustained wind speeds of 45 miles per hour. The storm’s winds extend outward up to 175 miles from its center.
Forecasters have described predicting Philippe as a challenging task, but they caution that wind speeds of up to 30 miles per hour may be expected in the Virgin Islands. Additionally, the possibility of 4-8 inches of rain within the next 24 hours raises concerns about potential flash flooding. Rough seas and rip currents, particularly on the northern sides of the islands, are also anticipated, leading to a small craft advisory being in effect.
As a precautionary measure, the National Emergency Operations Centre will be activating at Level 1, the monitoring phase, this afternoon. This level of readiness ensures that first responders and essential workers are prepared to respond immediately should conditions worsen.
Governor Rankin advises residents to continue following the updates from the Department of Disaster Management and take this time to review their emergency plans. It is crucial to ensure that individuals are prepared to activate necessary procedures at home and work. Those residing in low-lying or flood-prone areas are encouraged to take steps to safeguard their property.
The Governor assures the public that any further advice and information received will be promptly shared. In the meantime, he urges residents to support one another and prioritize safety during this time.
As Tropical Storm Philippe approaches, the Virgin Islands community is reminded of the importance of preparedness and resilience. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents can help ensure their safety and minimize the potential impact of the storm.
Governor John Rankin
Traffic Rerouted as Authorities Respond to Spill
A section of the Fish Bay Public Road in Tortola has been temporarily closed following an oil spill, according to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).
The closure, which began earlier today, is expected to impact local traffic as crews work to clean up the spill.
Motorists are being advised to use Ridge Road as an alternate route to avoid delays and potential turnarounds at police checkpoints.
Eighty public officers from various government offices in the Virgin Islands have completed a comprehensive Customer Service Training Course, organised by the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute (VIPSLI). The course aimed to enhance the skills of public officers working in front-facing roles, covering topics such as building customer relationships, establishing service standards, and managing difficult customer interactions.
Ms. Kedimone Rubaine, Director of Customer Service and course facilitator stressed the importance of education in the drive to improve public service standards. “As we continue to focus on enhancing customer service across the Public Service, we recognize the value of providing our officers with the right tools. This preparation ensures they are well-equipped to exemplify customer service excellence,” Rubaine said.
Customer service is a key priority in the Public Service Transformation Programme, which has seen the Office of the Deputy Governor develop strategic plans to improve communication, technology, and the implementation of new customer service tools.
Throughout the training, participants engaged in skill-building exercises designed to refine their interactive capabilities and gain practical insights on maintaining excellence when dealing with the public.
Under the guidance of the newly appointed Director, Dr. Connie E. George, the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute is working towards establishing a regionally certified customer service training program. The ongoing efforts, in collaboration with the Director of Customer Service, aim to foster a culture of excellence across the Virgin Islands Public Service.
The 2024 Preliminary Voters List for the Virgin Islands has been released for public review, as mandated by Section 18 (6) of the Elections Act 1994 and its amendments. The list includes a total of 16,106 registered voters across the Territory’s nine electoral districts.
Supervisor of Elections, Scherrie Griffin, emphasised the importance of this review process, urging the public to ensure their information is accurate. “The publication of the Preliminary Voters List plays a crucial role in keeping the Territory’s Voters List up-to-date throughout the year. It is essential that individuals check their registration details for their respective districts,” Griffin stated.
The list is available for inspection at 48 locations throughout the Virgin Islands, including supermarkets, clinics, bars, restaurants, stores, government buildings, and the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport. Additionally, the list can be accessed online at bvi.gov.vg/elections.
Those with objections or claims regarding the list must submit them between September 6 and 19 at the Office of the Supervisor of Elections, located in the Creque Building on Main Street, Tortola.
Oil Spill Forces Temporary Road Closure in Fish Bay
Eighty Virgin Islands Public Officers Complete Customer Service Training
Virgin Islands Releases 2024 Preliminary Voters List for Public Review
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