WAPA sent second line crew to Jamaica for storm restoration work

Official document: https://www.viwapa.vi/docs/default-source/2023-pr/press-release-(3.8.26)-wapa-deploys-second-line-crew-to-support-jamaica-restoration-efforts-and-strengtehn-storm-preparedness.pdf?sfvrsn=756c786a_3

Archive page: https://www.viwapa.vi/news-information/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/03/08/wapa-deploys-second-line-crew-to-support-jamaica-restoration-efforts-and-strengthen-storm-preparedness

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority said on March 8, 2026, that a second crew of lineworkers had arrived in Jamaica to assist with power restoration and electrical system repairs after Hurricane Melissa.

WAPA said the crew was led by Supervisor Charles E. Isles Jr. and included eight members from St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix, including lineworkers, apprentice lineworkers and a senior safety officer. The authority said the team was expected to work alongside Jamaican utility crews for about five weeks restoring power lines, poles and related equipment.

WAPA said the deployment followed an earlier five-week assignment in Jamaica by an initial delegation from the authority.

The March 8 delegation also included Transmission and Distribution Director Collin Brown and Line Superintendent Paul Gumbs. WAPA said Brown and Gumbs were scheduled to spend three days in Jamaica observing field restoration work and meeting with Jamaican utility officials to discuss restoration operations, challenges and grid-resilience strategies.