FREDERIKSTED — The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority said an active fire was reported at the Anguilla Landfill at 11:04 p.m. Friday.
“The fire is located on the east corner of the Landfill,” VIWMA spokeswoman Melody Rames said. “Virgin Islands Fire Service and VIWMA contractors and personnel are working expeditiously to bring the fire under control.”
VIWMA advised the public and all haulers that landfill operations have been temporarily suspended. Haulers are asked to hold waste until normal operating hours resume.
“Residents with respiratory disorders/conditions should take precautions to minimize their exposure to smoke as wind directions change,” Rames said. “The Authority will continue to provide updates regarding changes that may affect public health, the environment and haulers utilizing the Landfill.”
The VIWMA advised solid waste haulers that the Anguilla landfill reopened on St. Croix Saturday afternoon.
The landfill was closed on Saturday, February 8 at 6:00 a.m. The closure was attributed to an active fire reported on Friday.
The Virgin Islands Fire Service and VIWMA contractors and personnel worked “expeditiously” to bring the fire under control.
As of 2 p.m. Saturday “all fire and smoke was suppressed.” VIWMA said.
“The VIWMA Preserving Paradise team thanks the community for helping us put safety first; the safety of our employees and contractors is our first priority!” it said. “The Authority continues to work diligently to provide service to the public.”