St. Thomas Health Department Adds 150,000-Gallon Tank for Hurricane Readiness

The St. Thomas Health Department says it has completed key preparations for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.

Dr. D'Oyen Smith, the parish's Medical Officer of Health, said the department has taken steps to improve how it carries out emergency duties before the season begins on June 1.

A major part of the readiness plan is a newly obtained 150,000-gallon water tank, which is intended to keep health facilities supplied if bad weather affects normal water service.

Dr. Smith said the storage will give the health system an important backup, as water supply in the parish can be affected when electricity is lost. He said the hospital should be able to remain open for at least two weeks without water concerns.

He made the comments at the latest meeting of the St. Thomas Municipal Corporation.