High sea surf doing the usual damages in the area of Cox Heath, Tortola, on September 24, 2019. Photo: Team of Reporters

Acting Governor Mr David D. Archer has re-opened the public service at regular work hours and said similarly, school staff and students should report to their campuses at normal school hours. Photo: GIS/File

BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) workers restoring power to a section of Fahie Hill last night, September 24, 2019. Photo: Team of Reporters

Public Works Department (PWD) clearing the road to West End, Tortola, early this morning, September 25, 2019. Photo: Team of Reporters

Thanks to quick work from the Public Works Department (PWD) and the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC); however, roads were cleared very early this morning and power has been restored to most areas, some since last night.

The Tropical Storm Warning has been lifted; however, a Flood Warning remains in effect until 2:00pm.

And according to Acting Governor, Mr David D. Archer, following consultation with the Premier and on the advice of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), he has given the All Clear now and has formally deactivated the NEOC.

Mr Archer said based on the preparation done over the past few days and the efforts put in by the restoration crews last night and at daybreak, he believes the remaining works can be completed quickly this morning.

“I am therefore re-opening the public service at regular work hours. Similarly, school staff and students should report to their campuses at normal school hours.”

He said since there may be some changes to regular ferry operations and as a result of the current sea conditions, “I am further advising that department heads should make time allowances for their staff who commute to and from the sister islands based on available ferry schedules.”

Mr Archer said although Karen may be moving away from the territory, this does not mean that the VI can stop being ready. “We continue to monitor a very active Atlantic Ocean. Please keep an eye on these conditions as we remain vigilant for the remainder of the Atlantic Hurricane Season which officially ends November 30th.”

Hurricane Lorenzo forms

Meanwhile, Lorenzo, has become the fifth Atlantic hurricane of the season and is expected to become a major hurricane (Category 3) by Thursday, September 26, 2019.

The feature was dubbed Tropical Depression 13 Sunday night, became a tropical storm on Monday, and then a Category 1 hurricane today, Wednesday, September 25, 2019.

According to the National Hurricane Centre, in its 5:00am update, Lorenzo is moving toward the west-northwest near 17 mph (28 km/h), and this motion is expected to continue through Thursday. A turn toward the northwest is expected by Thursday night.

On this path, the storm is not expected to be a threat to the Virgin Islands.