(CNS): UPDATED 8PM THURSDAY: Fire Service crews remain on scene at what is a major blaze at the George Town landfill. Crews are actively working to contain the fire, prevent further spread, and reduce smoke and environmental impact. The blaze has been impacting the Esterly Tibbetts Highway which remains partially closed. While there is currently no mandatory evacuation in place for nearby residents, residents especially those at the Lakeside apartments are urged to take precautions. The Red Cross Shelter in George Town has also opened to accommodate those impacted by the smoke.
“Due to smoke affecting nearby areas, residents are strongly advised to stay indoors where possible, keep doors and windows closed, and limit exposure to outdoor air. Air conditioning may be used if available. Extra precautions are recommended for those with respiratory conditions, older adults, and young children,” officials have said.
ORIGINAL POST: A major fire erupted at the George Town dump at lunchtime on Thursday, which is being fuelled by relatively high winds, and the Cayman Islands Fire Service says it is going to take many hours to extinguish. Police have closed the Easterly Tibbetts Highway between the Jay Bodden Highway and the AL Thompson Roundabout, and traffic is being diverted to the West Bay Road or through Industrial Park.
Drivers are urged to seek alternative routes for safety to reduce the increasing congestion resulting from the road closure
The CIFS responded to a 911 call about the fire at about 12:54pm, but by that time, the dump was already visibly raging across a substantial portion of the landfill. Fire crews on scene are battling areas that are actively burning, creating a complex firefighting operation.
“The incident has been escalated and formally declared a critical incident by Station Manager Ian McLaughlin due to the scale, complexity and potential environmental impact,” the CIFS said in a release. “Crews are actively working to contain and extinguish the fire while mitigating its spread and reducing smoke and environmental impacts.”
The public is advised to avoid the affected area and remain mindful of potential smoke drift, which could impact nearby communities. Individuals with respiratory conditions are encouraged to take appropriate precautions. Officials said a further update will be provided at 6pm.
