“State of Emergency Declared in U.S. Virgin Islands as Lead and Copper Contamination Found in St. Croix Tap Water

Governor Albert Bryan of the U.S. Virgin Islands has declared a state of emergency on Wednesday after the presence of lead and copper in the tap water of St. Croix was discovered, prompting an advisory against its consumption.

Governor Bryan’s proclamation, inked on Monday, holds immense importance as it unlocks crucial resources and streamlines the emergency response efforts, permitting the U.S. territory to seek federal assistance in dealing with this pressing issue.

As a part of their swift response, the government has also taken the step of instituting price freezes on essential items like bottled water, in an effort to ensure that the local population has access to safe drinking water. This initiative is a collaborative effort between local and federal authorities, who are diligently working to test and monitor the water quality in St. Croix.

The genesis of this concerning situation can be traced back to late September when reports of discolored, reddish-brown water emerged on the island, home to a population exceeding 50,600 individuals. Although officials have cautioned against using this compromised water for drinking or cooking purposes, they have affirmed its safety for showering and general household cleaning needs.