A WAPA line crew working on restoring power for customers connected to Feeder 6A on St Croix. Photo: WAPA

Fallen trees in the Barren Spot area of St Croix Wednesday morning, August 14, 2024, following the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto. Photo: Ernice Gilbert/VI Consortium

WAPA said significant progress has been made, with overall restoration reaching 95% on St Croix and 94% in the St Thomas/St John district.

On St Thomas, the restoration work focused on several feeders, including 7A, 7C, 7E, and 9C, resulting in improvements. Additional outages on feeders 6A, 8A, 6B, 7B, and 8B were also addressed, WAPA said, contributing to the 94% overall restoration on the island. 

In the St Croix district, WAPA crews successfully restored power to many customers on feeders 2A (Tide Village), 5A, 6A, 8B (La Grange and Hams Bluff), and 9B, according to a press release from the authority. The teams also tackled outages on feeders 2A, 4A (Sion Hill), 7B, and 10B (Rainforest), achieving a 95% restoration rate across the island. However, Feeder 3A experienced a temporary service disruption as crews worked to clear trees on the powerlines in the Catherine’s Rest area. Ongoing tree-clearing efforts, in collaboration with the Department of Public Works, and pole repairs are essential to addressing the remaining isolated outages, contingent on favourable weather conditions.

96% restoration rate in St John

WAPA said its efforts on St John have led to a 96% restoration rate. Crews worked to clear large vegetation and restore power to several reported isolated outages on feeders 7E and 9E.

Additionally, WAPA's Water Personnel on St Croix are monitoring water pressure levels in Estate Whim, Hannah’s Rest, and Frederiksted town. With all pump stations across the territory now fully operational, customers in higher elevations have begun to experience improved water pressure, which is expected to continue as water storage tank levels rise, according to the authority.

WAPA encouraged residents to report any isolated outages by contacting the Call Center, which will be open on Sunday, August 18, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at 340-715-8007. Residents are reminded to have their account number ready when calling. Additionally, for safety reasons, residents should avoid utility poles and power lines and contact 911 for emergencies.