Shot of Anguilla Landfill By. D.E.A.R. Productions
ST. CROIX — The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority said Monday that an active fire in the scrap metals section at the Anguilla Landfill was discovered at about 2:36 p.m., at which point it was reported to the VI Fire Service.
The Waste Management release stated that staff and contractors reported metals, including junked cars, were being processed for removal when a vehicle, which was also being crushed and processed, caught on fire causing the blaze to quickly spread to the metal section.
WMA contractors, the V.I. Fire Service and WMA personnel were said to be collaborating and working expeditiously to bring the fire under control. Landfill operations have not been affected, however, the scrap metal section of the facility is closed until further notice, Waste Management said.
The public is reminded to remove all engine fluids prior to disposal, preventing accidental fires and protecting the environment from spills.
Residents with respiratory disorders/conditions should take precautions to minimize their exposure to smoke as wind directions change, WMA said.
The authority said it will continue to provide updates regarding changes that may affect public health. WMA also apologized for the inconvenience caused.
Update: May 18, 2020
While the original press release makes it appear that a vehicle being started caused the fire, WMA Public Affairs Officer, Melody Rames, clarified by stating that a discarded vehicle being crushed and processed caught on fire and became the culprit of the wider blaze. The title and story have been updated.