The OECS (Organization of Eastern Caribbean States) Commission Wednesday commiserated with the British Virgin Islands in the wake of extensive and damaging flooding from a tropical wave.
The weather system drenched the territory with hours of rain Tuesday. The resulting floods inundated homes, businesses and churches.
Sympathy offered
In the wake of the destruction, Director General of the OECS, Dr. Didacus Jules and staff of the nine nation OECS Commission have offered their sympathies to the people of the British Virgin Islands.
“Our thoughts and prayers were with those who suffered loss and continue to be affected by the flooding,” said Jules.
Commissioners from Member States to the OECS have remained in close contact with BVI Commissioner Najan Christopher to monitor and assess the evolving situation.
Other Member States are now awaiting advice from the BVI as to what assistance need from sister OECS territories in order to mobile disaster recovery resources.
“Regrettably this event and other similar occurrences are another reminder of the vulnerability of our small island states to new and changing weather systems and the collective need to do more in collaboration with our development partners to fortify our disaster management responses,” Jules said.
BVI open for business
Meanwhile, the BVI Tourist Board says the industry remains open for business although several properties have been damaged due to the heavy rains.
According to tourism board officials, the island of Tortola has been hardest hit. The territory is still in ‘full clean up mode’.
“The accommodations sector reported mild flooding within a few properties. However, the majority of hotels and villas remained open for business,” according to the tourist board.
The airport, which had been closed early Monday, was reopened the following day. Seaports are also opened as ferry operators have resumed normal business.
“We advise our accommodations sector to stay vigilant in keeping their guests up-to-date with information pertaining to travel and weather advisories,” the Tourist Board said.
Electricity has been restored to the majority of the territory, and the BVI Electricity Corporation’s restoration teams are steadily addressing minor outstanding areas that are still without power.
