Flow technicians have made significant progress, restoring connectivity to mobile sites in Virgin Gorda North, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada. Efforts are ongoing on Tortola, particularly at the Chalwell and Long Swamp Fiber Distribution Points. These crucial hubs serve broadband customers in regions including Great Mountain, Spooners Estate, Cane Garden Bay, Chalwell, and Fat Hog’s Bay to the Airport.

Restoration work is also advancing in Virgin Gorda, with focus areas being North Sound and the Valley.

“We understand the importance of connectivity for our customers in resuming their daily lives and we thank them for their patience during this restoration phase,” said Nadia A. James, Marketing and Communications Coordinator for Flow. “We are committed to restoring connectivity and having most of our broadband customers back online before the weekend.”

James further explained that the company’s priority is to swiftly repair the main fiber distribution points, which should automatically restore internet services in affected communities. Once these critical repairs are completed, technicians will focus on investigating individual customer faults as they are reported.

Flow customers experiencing service interruptions due to the storm or ongoing recovery efforts are encouraged to report issues via WhatsApp at 1284-544-4444 for Tortola or 1284-544-0189 for Virgin Gorda. Reports can be made Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and to the Regional Customer Care Team at 1800-804-2994 from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. Customers are advised to provide their account information when making a report.

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The British Virgin Islands Ports Authority (BVIPA) has announced that all port facilities across the territory will resume regular operations tomorrow, Thursday, August 15, following the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto.

This decision comes as the BVI begins to recover from the storm’s impact, which led to widespread closures of airports and seaports today.

The BVIPA has advised that while their facilities will be operational, they are still awaiting final approval from the US Coast Guard for the reopening of seaports in the neighbouring US Virgin Islands. Passengers planning to travel are urged to confirm departure times with their respective operators, as services may vary.

All airports and seaports across the British Virgin Islands were closed as a precautionary measure due to the effects of Tropical Storm Ernesto. The closures included key transportation hubs such as Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, Virgin Gorda International Airport, and Auguste George International Airport on Anegada, along with seaports like the Road Town Jetty, Port Purcell, and ferry terminals at West End, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada.

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Governor Pruce confirmed that, after consultations with the National Emergency Operations Centre and Premier Natalio D. Wheatley, it is now generally safe for residents to move about. Government offices are scheduled to reopen tomorrow, August 15.

“This means that it is generally safe to move about, and that Government offices will re-open tomorrow, but we should all still use caution,” Governor Pruce stated. He advised motorists to be aware of potential hazards such as ponding on roads and scattered debris, and urged mariners to remain vigilant, as rough seas are expected to persist for the next few days.

While a full assessment of the damage caused by Hurricane Ernesto is still underway, initial reports indicate that the storm inflicted significant damage across the islands. The Territory experienced sustained winds of 48 miles per hour, with gusts reaching up to 80 miles per hour. Rainfall averaged five inches, with some areas receiving as much as eight inches.

The Governor acknowledged the impact of flooding on homes and businesses, as well as the widespread property damage caused by strong winds, high waves, and downed trees. “Many have been impacted by flooding, and will need time to repair and restore their homes or businesses,” he said.

Power has been restored in Road Town and Central Tortola, but Governor Pruce cautioned that it may take time for the entire Territory to be fully reconnected. He also urged residents to check on friends and neighbours, particularly those who may be vulnerable.

As the Territory moves into the peak of hurricane season, Governor Pruce stressed the importance of preparation. “I have one more request: As we head into the busiest period of the hurricane season, I ask everyone to consider how they can prepare for the next storm and take steps to be ready,” he advised.

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Premier Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley in a statement today, August 14,  provided an update on the recovery operations.

“I hope and pray you have all made it safely through the worst of Ernesto,” Premier Wheatley said, underscoring the seriousness of the storm’s impact. He confirmed that crews from the Public Works Department, the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC), and telecommunications providers are actively working to clear the roads and restore essential services.

The Premier also acknowledged the critical role of district representatives and heavy equipment operators who have been instrumental in assisting their communities during this challenging time. “I acknowledge the district representatives and the heavy equipment operators who are assisting their communities at this time,” he noted.

As the Territory begins to recover, Premier Wheatley urged residents to prioritize safety by remaining indoors until an official all-clear is given. “Please protect your safety and the safety of our essential workers and allow these crews time to do their work,” he advised.

The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) is expected to convene shortly to assess the situation further and coordinate ongoing efforts. Premier Wheatley assured the public that additional updates would be provided following the NEOC’s meeting.

Reflecting on the collective resilience of the Virgin Islands, the Premier offered words of gratitude and hope. “We are grateful to God for His protection. May His love and mercy be our shelter throughout the remainder of this Hurricane season,” he concluded.

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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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