Landfill Fire Update at 8am on Tuesday, 10 March

Landfill Fire Update at 8am on Tuesday, 10 March 2020. The Cayman Islands Fire Service (CIFS), Department of Environmental Health (DEH) and Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) remain on site at the George Town Landfill.

Following an assessment this morning, the Esterley Tibbetts Highway was able to remain open both north and southbound, successfully alleviating the traffic congestion seen the previous day. Motorists are advised to stay vigilant while on the stretch of highway between the Butterfield roundabout and Camana Bay, reduce their driving speed and keep vehicle windows closed.

CIFS’ focus today will be to further reduce the amount of visible smoke in the area and lessen its impact to local residents. DEH continue to excavate the site, allowing CIFS to dampen down the area and reduce smoke. More favourable weather conditions are expected today, which should aid fire officers’ efforts.

Operational meetings at the scene will be held at noon and 4pm today. A decision will be made whether the smoke has been reduced sufficiently to allow Lakeside and Watler Road residents to return home at the 4pm meeting.

Commenting on the volume of food donations and well-wishes offered to crews, Chief Fire Officer, Paul Walker QFSM said: “Everyone at CIFS is overwhelmed by the level of public support and generosity shown to our crews. During protracted and challenging incidents such as this, it really means a lot that the community is behind us. This is Cayman Kind at its best.”

Persons experiencing any problems with irritation or difficulty breathing should contact their healthcare professional or seek help from the Accident & Emergency Department at the Health Services Authority (HSA).

The next update will be shared after 12pm today.