Residents of Virgin Gorda have been asked to remain indoors, due to a massive fire at the dumpsite on that island. Photo: Team of Reporters

The Department of Waste Management has warned that the developing smoke can contain hazardous particles that may pose risks to individuals, especially those with existing respiratory ailments. Photo: Team of Reporters

Community advocate and former legislator Shereen D. Flax-Charles told our News Centre that all available water trucks, excavators, dump trucks and other heavy equipment needed were volunteered by private contractors on Virgin Gorda. Photo: Team of Reporters

According to reports reaching our News Centre the fire at the Virgin Gorda Dumpsite was noticed yesterday, September 26, 2026. Photo: Team of Reporters

According to reports reaching our News Centre the fire was noticed yesterday, September 26, 2026.

The Department of Waste Management (DWM), in an update late last night, said it recognises there were "some challenges tonight which affected the response".

DWM said it has enlisted a fleet of private contractors from Tortola who will aid in a multi-faceted fire containment strategy. Both water and dump trucks will be on-site for extinguishment and smothering.

DWM also warned that the developing smoke can contain hazardous particles that may pose risks to individuals, especially those with existing respiratory ailments. "Should you encounter any medical difficulties, please contact health services immediately."

Community advocate and former legislator Shereen D. Flax-Charles told our News Centre that all available water trucks, excavators, dump trucks and other heavy equipment needed were volunteered by private contractors on Virgin Gorda.

"As always, the Virgin Gorda community assists in whatever way they can," Flax-Charles told our News Centre.

Flax-Charles also took the opportunity to point out that Virgin Gorda does not have adequate firefighting equipment, "as witnessed from recent fire incidents, most recently the Omars’ VG fire.

"At one point last evening, the fire appliance from Fire and Rescue was on site, but no water was available," Flax-Charles said.

She said the dump remains closed and could pose another issue in the coming days if the problem is not rectified. "We are hopeful that the entire situation is resolved soonest with the assistance of all involved."

Our News Centre has contacted Ninth District Representative Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R7) for an update on the situation.