Hurricane Earl has now left the area after causing damage to the VI including downed power lines and felled trees, landslides and road erosion. Photo: VINO.

This is V. Inez Archibald, Deputy Governor, with an update for all public officers following the passage of Hurricane Earl.

All Government offices will remain closed on Tuesday, 31 August because of the multiple reports reaching the Department of Disaster Management of damage across Tortola.

To some extent, the damage sustained during the passage of Hurricane Earl includes a number of ‘downed’ trees and other debris which have made some of our roads impassable and as a consequence driving at this time is very dangerous.

The decision to keep all Government offices closed on Tuesday, 31 August will also allow for the uninterrupted clean-up efforts by the Public Works Department. The priorities at this time are the main roads and the restoration of services.

It is therefore vital that both the motoring public and pedestrians stay off our roads on Tuesday to ensure a smooth and safe clearing of our main roads.

Again, only essential workers are expected to report to work on Tuesday 31 August, and emergency services should remain on standby.

I am encouraging all public officers to remain indoors and stay off the roads until it is safe to venture out.

Ladies and gentlemen thank you for listening.