June 09, 2006 – Commissioner Dean C. Plaskett of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources advises the public that the gray haze observed in the territory since June 4 is a combined result of a volcanic event on the island of Montserrat and the movement of African Sahara Desert dust.
The National Weather Service in San Juan confirmed that the territory was affected by dust associated with both phenomena,, and up to the present time a combination of both dust and ash have been affecting the territory.
While this haze may not be an immediate threat, persons with allergies or respiratory ailments should remain indoors when possible.
The public is advised to disconnect or securely block all downspouts leading to the cistern in order to prevent the volcanic ash and or Sahara desert dust from affecting their water supplies.
Residents are advised to hose off their roofs when possible before reconnecting the downspouts, and to boil drinking water from cisterns before using.
For additional information, contact the Division of Environmental Protection at 773-1082 or 774-3320.
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