Update: The Waste Management Authority said in a release today that the fire started at approximately 3:00 a.m. W.M.A. advised the public and all solid waste haulers that the St. Croix Transfer Station and Anguilla Landfill are closed and will not be accepting municipal solid waste until further notice.
W.M.A. said temporary closure is required to ensure safety and continued vigorous fire suppression activities.
It is recommended that residents with respiratory conditions shelter in place to minimize exposure to smoke as wind directions change. When necessary, seek an alternate location until suppression activities have concluded. The authority said it will continue to provide updates regarding changes that may affect public health, the environment and haulers utilizing the Landfill.
Original Story: ST. CROIX — The Anguilla Landfill on St. Croix was on fire again today as of 11:00 a.m., with first responders telling The Consortium that officials suspected arson as the cause, although they couldn’t immediately say for sure.
The Sunday morning fire, at the landfill itself, comes approximately one week following a fire at the Waste Management Authority’s Transfer Station at the Anguilla site.
Today’s fire was much worse; thick, black plumes of smoke billowed and pushed to the west of St. Croix by strong winds. The fire, heaviest on a tall pile of waste, also included used oil and stretched well over 100 feet.
First responders on the scene said it was difficult to contain the blaze, and that the best outcome would be to let it run its course. A firefighter said even if first responders attempted to out the fire, equipment needed to help them achieve this goal were damaged by the fire.
While W.M.A. hasn’t issued a release on the fire, it would be wise for residents with respiratory issues to stay indoors, especially if you’re residing on the west side of the island.
Share On Facebook
Tweet It
