News - Hazard Management Cayman Islands
News
Saharan Dust Cloud - Alert in effect from Friday, 26 June through Sunday, 28 June 2026
The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability (MHES) and the Public Health Department (PHD) are advising residents to take precautions to protect themselves from the effects of Saharan dust. The Cayman Islands National Weather Service (CINWS) has advised that a Dust Alert will be in effect from Friday, 26 June through Sunday, 28 June 2026.

Cayman Strengthens Disaster Recovery Readiness
Facilitated by UK-based GSB Command Training Ltd., the programme brought together approximately 65 participants from across Government and Statutory Authorities and Government Companies (SAGCs)
Air Quality Remains Within Moderate Range
Health officials also confirmed that there have been no locations recording readings in the Unhealthy or higher categories.

SpaceX Starship 12: Public Safety Notice
HMCI wishes to advise the public of an upcoming SpaceX Starship 12 test launch, scheduled between 15–18 May 2026
Annual Government Hurricane-Preparedness Exercise — Wednesday, 6 May 2026
Now in its 39th consecutive year, this drill—co-ordinated with HMCI—keeps personnel, equipment and procedures storm-ready ahead of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which begins 1 June. No storm is currently threatening the Cayman Islands
Landfill Fire Update – Major Incident Downgraded
The public is advised that the fire at the George Town Landfill has been formally downgraded from a Major Incident. The emergency is now being managed as a Critical Incident under the operational command of the Cayman Islands Fire Service (CIFS), with on-scene management continuing to be led by CIFS personnel.
Landfill Fire - Traffic and CIFS Update
Fire crews remain actively engaged at the George Town Landfill fire and continue to make steady progress. There are currently no visible flames at the top of the landfill mound, with firefighting efforts now focused on identified hot spots.
Landfill Fire - Agencies Continue Response and Community Support Measures
The Cayman Islands Fire Service can confirm that the landfill fire is currently under control. However, challenges with equipment and intermittent smoke cover affecting visibility have slowed extinguishment efforts.
Landfill Fire – Update on Containment Efforts
The Cayman Islands Fire Service (CIFS) is actively working on the containment of the fire at the George Town landfill and is extinguishing all small spot fires that may occur. The fire was initially reported in one of the active fill areas facing the Esterly Tibbetts Highway.
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