Drivers Urged to Exercise Caution as Heavy
Minister for Communications and Works Kye Rymer is urging motorists to exercise extreme caution as periods of heavy rainfall continue to reduce visibility and increase the risk of debris on roads across the BVI. The Public Works Department is actively monitoring roadways and crews remain on standby to clear debris and address drainage concerns; motorists are strongly encouraged to avoid non-essential travel and to check DDM channels for the latest hazard information.
Minister for Communications and Works Kye Rymer has issued a renewed warning to motorists as periods of heavy rainfall continue to affect road conditions across the Virgin Islands, the Government said in its latest advisory. Reduced visibility, surface water and the increased likelihood of fallen branches or landslip debris are creating hazardous driving conditions on Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke and the smaller cays.
According to the Government of the Virgin Islands, the Public Works Department (PWD) is actively monitoring major and secondary roads across all islands. PWD crews are on standby to respond to reports of blocked drains, washed-out sections, fallen trees and other storm-related damage; authorities note that response times can vary by island and by road access, so prevention and caution remain essential.
Motorists are strongly encouraged to avoid non-essential travel while the inclement weather persists. Where travel cannot be postponed, Minister Rymer and officials urge drivers to remain alert, reduce speed, keep headlights on, and prioritise safety at all times. The Government specifically reminds motorists not to attempt to drive through flowing water or deep, flooded sections of road.
Practical safety tips for motorists provided by the Government and emergency services include: - Reduce speed and drive well below the posted limit when visibility or traction is poor - Keep headlights on and ensure windscreen wipers are functioning properly - Maintain extra distance from vehicles ahead and avoid sudden braking - Be especially cautious on steep or winding roads and near river crossings where water can rise quickly - Report washed-out roads, blocked drains, fallen trees or other hazards to the Public Works Department or the Disaster Management Department Residents can receive the latest hazard and road information via Disaster Management Department (DDM) channels: the DDM Alert iPhone app (https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/bviddm-emergency-app/id6449369372), the DDM Alert Android app (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bviddmapp), or the DDM WhatsApp channel (https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaZXGSCBPzjgtafjkC28).
The Government emphasises these channels for up-to-date warnings and situational reports. For international media enquiries, contact BVIGovernment@dgagroup.com. For general government services or to book appointments, call the Government of the Virgin Islands hub at 1 (284) 468-3701 or WhatsApp 1 (284) 468-9760; the Government office is at 33 Admin Drive, Wickhams Cay 1, Tortola.
Officials say more virtual services and a booking system will be available soon. What’s new: the Government update reiterates Minister Rymer’s call for extreme caution and clarifies that PWD crews are specifically prepared to address both debris clearance and drainage concerns as rainfall continues.
Authorities again stress that residents should check local advisories before travelling and report urgent road hazards so crews can be prioritised where they are most needed. The Government asks all residents to prioritise safety, remain informed through official channels, and to report road hazards promptly so response teams can be deployed effectively across the islands.
Primary source: BVI Government