Virgin Islandsof St. Thomas and St. John.
Forty miles to the south, St. Croix experienced sustained tropical-storm winds with hurricane-force gusts.
Twelve days later, the tables were turned.Hurricane Marialanded on Puerto Rico and St. Croix.
The northern U.S. and British islands, already devastated by Irma, experienced tropical-storm winds with hurricane gusts.
The hurricanes severely damaged hundreds of homes in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
All of the hospitals sustained significant damage, necessitating the air evacuation of patients to the U.S. mainland.
Cell service in the Virgin Islands was limited.
Streets were full of debris and utility wires.
Large trees fell and those that remained standing no longer had leaves.
VITEMA also coordinated rescue and recovery efforts.
The response was amazing, but preparedness work continues.
The local government and utility companies continue to improve our storm readiness.
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Page published June 2018
