As Tropical Storm Erin moves across the Atlantic during what forecasters warn could be an active hurricane season, the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) has announced a comprehensive, territory-wide sandbag distribution program. The initiative, part of Operation Blue Skies 2025, aims to provide critical hurricane preparedness resources to residents across all districts of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
VITEMA, working in partnership with the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Services, the Department of Public Works, the Office of ADA Coordinator, and the Department of Human Services, confirmed that this will be the only sandbag distribution for the 2025 hurricane season. The program is designed to serve all districts and ensure that both government agencies and the general public have access to this essential storm preparation resource.
Schedule for Government and Semi-Autonomous Agencies
Distribution for government and semi-autonomous agencies will take place on August 20, 2025, at the same locations and times as the general public distribution.
General Public Distribution at Fire Stations
Sandbags for the public will be available at fire stations on August 21, 22, and 23, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Residents must bring identification and their own shovel.
Department of Public Works Sites
The Department of Public Works will distribute sandbags on August 21 and 22, 2025. Sites will be closed on Saturday, August 23. Distribution hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Identification and a personal shovel are required for pickup.
VITEMA is encouraging residents to take advantage of this opportunity to bolster their hurricane preparedness efforts as the season progresses.
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