Antigua Begins Restoration Efforts After Tropical Storm Ernesto

Antigua and Barbuda: The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has initiated the restoration process as the tropical storm warning for ‘Ernesto’ has been discontinued and an all clear is issued by the met department.

The authority shared the update on their social media while stating that, “As an all clear has been issued by the met department, our initial assessments have been completed”.

The authorities previously shared a post stating that the restoration efforts will only resume when the met office will issue an all clear.

They first addressed the power outage that happened on the morning of 13th August, stating it was caused by a fault in the 69 kV line at the Belmont and Friars Hill Substations. Additionally, the wrong functioning of the rapid relay also initiated a quick load loss of power, causing a system-wide outage.

APUA then stated that 85% of damage has been restored and the main circuits have started working. The restoration, however, is currently continuing and is expected to end soon as the crew is actively involved in the repair work.

It further noted that it is addressing other faults in the area and will ensure that the services start operating normally as soon as possible.

The authorities then emphasized customer services and ensured their commitment while noting, “We ask for your continued support and patience. Please be assured that the safety of our customers, workers, and equipment remains our top priority, and we are committed to restoring service to every customer as safely and swiftly as possible”.

In a prior release, the APUA stated that the water facilities would take time to restore as they depend upon electricity for their uninterrupted function. They stated that the water services will be restored once they conduct all the safety checks on the high voltage panels and motors, making sure that everything stays moisture-free to prevent potential hazards.

The residents of Antigua are praising the efforts of APUA for their fast recovery under the comment section of their post, however many are stating their difficulties due to the power outage.

Itahamar Weatherhead stated, “Just a reminder that APUA is not working with robots but with human beings. You all give the people a damn chance.”

Rosanne Perry, while noting her problem stated, “What happen to Scott’s Hill and Potters? Every time you all leave us for last. What we do?”

“Why has half my house not gotten any electricity since around 4 pm in Paynter Paradise?” Romaine Langley noted.

Angel Buttaz said, “Apua, please don’t forget us on the east side. Pares need the little current and water that don’t come for days. Thank you kindly.”

Notably, tropical storm ‘Ernesto’ just passed the islands of the Caribbean last night and caused minimal damage to the island nations. The met departments have been established across all the regions, and services have started to resume.

However, the British Virgin Islands are still under affect for the tropical Storm as it has taken its turn to towards the island nation.