Frederiksted emergency water distribution ends; boil notice remains

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority restarted production at its Richmond reverse-osmosis facility Sunday evening after the V.I. Waste Management Authority repaired the failed Christiansted sewer force main and water-quality testing found conditions at the seawater intake acceptable.

Service will not return everywhere at once. WAPA is limiting pumping to avoid sudden pressure on the aging distribution network, and said Christiansted customers should see improvement first. Water must move through additional pump stations and storage before pressure recovers in Frederiksted and other western areas.

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has issued Executive Order 548-2026, formally declaring a state of emergency for St. Croix effective August 30. The order activates the St. Croix Emergency Operations Center, keeps the National Guard and agency resources available and supports continued non-potable water distribution while the system stabilizes.

WAPA reported September 3 that water inventory is improving gradually, with small gains in several critical storage tanks. The authority continues to manage production and distribution while reserves and service stabilize under extreme drought conditions.

The three temporary non-potable water distribution sites in Frederiksted concluded operations after Monday, September 7. Residents should not travel to the former pickup locations based on the expired distribution notice.

The boil-water advisory also remains in effect. Water used for drinking, cooking, ice, brushing teeth and other household consumption should be boiled for one minute and cooled, or replaced with bottled water, until WAPA issues an official all-clear.

Customers are still asked to postpone nonessential water use such as washing vehicles, pressure washing and watering lawns. Executive Order 548-2026 continues to support the wider government response while the system recovers.