V.I. National Park personnel set about taking hikes, sampling waters and otherwise assessing the state of the park in the aftermath of Hurricane Debby on Wednesday with the expectation of reopening at least some of the facilities to the public by Thursday.
All public facilities were closed on Friday as the park went into "Incident Command" mode with Tropical Storm Chris heading for the Caribbean. As Chris dissipated, Tropical Storm Debby followed immediately in its wake, turning into a Category 1 hurricane as it headed directly for St. John then veered northward Tuesday morning.
A preliminary survey showed that "the park appears to be in fine shape," a National Park Service release issued Wednesday stated. "However, employees will travel throughout the park to obtain a more in-depth picture." Among other things, they were hiking the park trails to see whether any had been made impassable by the storm.
The fee booths at the Trunk Bay beach and at the Annaberg ruins will reopen on Friday. While restrooms and other facilities may be open, the release said, "visitors to the beaches should avoid swimming until the water has been tested for contaminants that may have entered due to runoff."
Those planning to visit the park can call the visitor information number, 776-6201, ext. 238 or 252, for updated information on services.