The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is closely monitoring three disturbances in the Atlantic that could impact the Virgin Islands. The most distant of these, Disturbance 3, located just off the coast of the Cabo Verde Islands, has now intensified into Tropical Depression 7. Meanwhile, Disturbances 1 and 2 are moving into areas with conditions only marginally conducive to development over the next week.

Early model forecasts suggest that Disturbances 1 and 2 may not develop into significant storms, while Tropical Depression 7 appears likely to strengthen but is expected to steer clear of the Virgin Islands. Nonetheless, residents are urged to stay vigilant, as conditions in the Atlantic can change rapidly. With hurricane season reaching its peak, the potential for increased activity — and a greater threat to the Virgin Islands — remains high.

The DDM will continue to track the westward progress of these disturbances and provide updates at 5:30 p.m. today, or sooner if necessary.

The Government of the Virgin Islands has launched an extensive series of road rehabilitation and upgrade projects across the Territory as part of a broad infrastructural development program to enhance the safety and quality of its road network for residents and visitors alike.

Director of the Public Works Department, Jeremy Hodge, stated that the Ministry of Communications and Works is spearheading these efforts, with particular attention being given to key areas that have faced significant challenges. One such area is the main road on Jost Van Dyke, where ongoing construction work addresses damage sustained nearly two years ago during a severe weather event. “A section of the road was severely undermined, leaving the cliffside lane impassable and reducing 45 linear feet of roadway to one lane,” Mr. Hodge explained.

The rehabilitation plan for Jost Van Dyke includes installing an enhanced drainage system, building a large gabion stepped structure to stabilise the hillside, constructing a 45-foot retaining wall, demolishing the damaged concrete roadway, and reinstating the road itself.

Additional roadworks are also in progress throughout the Territory. Notable projects include asphalt paving along Blackburn Highway near Jean Hill and Fish Bay, and scheduled work on the Brandywine Bay Road to East End route from Wednesday, September 11, to Wednesday, September 18, between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Officials have urged the public to exercise caution and adhere to all signage during these construction periods. The Ministry of Communications and Works has apologised for any inconvenience caused and expressed appreciation for the public’s cooperation and understanding as these critical infrastructure projects are completed.