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.

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Numerous trees have fallen, particularly in the countryside areas on the northern side of the islands, posing significant risks. Sightseeing is strongly discouraged, as there is a high likelihood of becoming trapped by debris.

Road crews are actively assessing the damage and working to clear debris from the roads. However, the all-clear has not yet been given. Residents are advised to stay off the roads until further notice. The DDM emphasises that the teams are prioritising the clearing of main roads first, but their safety is also paramount. The public is urged to exercise patience as these efforts continue.

Tropical Storm Ernesto, which is expected to strengthen into a hurricane, remains a serious threat. As of 2 a.m., the storm was located near latitude 19.0 North and longitude 66.0 West, approximately 86 miles west-northwest of Road Town. Moving northwest at 17 mph (28 km/h), the storm is expected to take a turn toward the north-northwest and then north, gradually decreasing in speed by Wednesday night and Thursday.

On its current trajectory, Ernesto is forecasted to pass to the northeast and north of Puerto Rico by early Wednesday, then move over the western Atlantic later in the week, potentially approaching Bermuda by Friday.

With maximum sustained winds now at 70 mph (110 km/h) and further strengthening anticipated, Ernesto is likely to become a hurricane by early Wednesday. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 125 miles (205 km) from the center, and residents should be prepared for heavy rain, flash flooding, and hazardous marine conditions.

The Department of Disaster Management continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary. Residents are strongly encouraged to stay informed and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property during this critical period.

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The event, characterised by heavy rainfall, dumped over 5 inches of rain on Road Town and approximately 9 inches on Virgin Gorda, triggering flash floods and widespread disruption.

His Excellency, Governor Daniel Pruce, led a meeting on May 8 with leaders from key responding agencies, including the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, Ministry of Health and Social Development, BVI Ports Authority, BVI Electricity Corporation, and the Public Works Department. The meeting aimed to discuss preliminary impacts and outline next steps in the recovery process.

Governor Pruce expressed gratitude that no lives were lost and no injuries were reported during the flash flood event. He underscored the importance of community support for those affected, emphasizing the need to assist individuals in recovering belongings and rebuilding businesses.

Director of Disaster Management, Mr. Jasen Penn, highlighted the sudden and dangerous nature of flash flooding, stressing the importance of preparedness and mitigation efforts across the Territory. While the presence of a trough had been forecasted by the Antigua Met Office, the extent of rainfall was not fully understood until the event was underway.

Mr. Penn expressed appreciation for the public’s cooperation and adherence to safety measures, such as school closures and office hour adjustments, which helped ensure overall safety during the event.

As the Territory prepares for the upcoming hurricane season starting on June 1, residents are reminded of the importance of readiness for storms, floods, and other emergencies. Resources and tools for emergency preparedness, including family plan templates, storm tracking maps, emergency supplies checklists, and shelter lists, are available at www.bviddm.com.

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