Musgrove Leads Government’s Rapid Response as Heavy Rainfall Triggers Localised Flooding

The Turks & Caicos Islands Government, through the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, has activated an intensive rapid response and restoration effort following more than 24 cumulative hours of heavy rainfall that caused widespread localised flooding across parts of Providenciales.

Hon. Arlington Musgrove, Minister of Physical Planning Infrastructure Development tours a flooded Downtown Providenciales

The Ministry reported that pumps and flood-management systems are operating at full capacity, removing in excess of 6,000 gallons of water per minute from affected areas. Additional drainage wells and systems are being installed in critical flood-prone zones to assist with water retention and accelerate clearance efforts.

Officials cautioned that water levels in some locations remain extremely high and will take time to recede fully despite ongoing mitigation works.

Flood-Affected Areas to Avoid

Residents and motorists are urged to avoid the following areas due to persistent flooding:

• Downtown and Kew Town, particularly Parade Avenue

• Aviation Drive

• Sections of the Millennium Highway

• Bible Street

• Areas near The Touch of Healing Hands Spa

• Areas near the TCI Waste Management facility and the Kendall Thomas Building

Roads Cleared and Passable

The Ministry confirmed that several key roadways have been cleared and are now passable:

• The Bypass Industrial Drive Road, including the Car Quest intersection

• South Dock Road

• Old Airport Road

• Bay Road

• Blue Hills

Motorists needing access to the airport are advised to route via Black Crow Road to Walter Cox Drive.

Minister Conducts Site Visits

Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development Arlington Musgrove has personally visited affected areas to assess flood conditions and review flood-management operations on the ground.

Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development Hon. Arlington Musgrove examines water being pumped from sections of Downtown Providenciales

In a statement, Minister Musgrove said safeguarding residents, maintaining safe access to key facilities, and accelerating drainage improvements remain the government’s top priorities. He praised ministry teams and partner agencies for their tireless efforts and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a swift, safe, and transparent response as conditions continue to evolve.

Public Safety Advisory

Residents are encouraged to avoid commuting where possible and to minimise non-essential travel to reduce risks and ease the burden on emergency and drainage services. Authorities strongly advise against driving through flooded roadways, warning that water depth can be deceptive and that hidden hazards may be present.

Motorists are also urged to stay clear of floodwaters near electrical infrastructure or downed power lines and to avoid touching fallen equipment.

Members of the public are encouraged to report areas requiring immediate attention directly to the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development.

The government says it remains committed to restoring normalcy as quickly and safely as possible and thanks residents and visitors for their continued cooperation during the response.