Landfill Fire - Traffic and CIFS Update

17 April 2026 | Press Release | By: CIG Communications

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.

Smoke emissions are currently moderate to light. The Cayman Islands Fire Service has set up additional ground monitors on top of the mound, designed to deliver large volumes of water and support tanker operations.

At this time, there are no concerns about further escalation. Crews will continue to monitor and saturate the site.

Update on Road Closures

The Esterley Tibbetts Highway has been fully reopened to vehicular traffic. Motorists are urged to proceed with caution when travelling in the vicinity of the landfill.

Landfill Operations

The George Town landfill will re-open tomorrow from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm. Members of the public are advised that there will be checks by Department of Environmental Health (DEH) staff on entry to ensure the waste being delivered does not pose a risk.

In addition, the tipping area will be reduced in size and there will be a limitation of 1 vehicle at a time allowed to tip. This is to ensure the safety of all persons and so that ongoing firefighting operations are not affected.

Please note that landfill operations will be subject to review and change without notice dependent on the circumstances. We ask that the public to remain patient and be considerate when visiting the landfill and to follow all instructions of the DEH landfill staff.

Community Updates

The Cayman Islands Red Cross shelter has closed as affected residents begin to return to their residences.

Starting this afternoon, multi-agency teams from the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, the Cayman Islands Regiment, and the Health Services Authority will be conducting welfare checks for residents of communities directly impacted by the landfill fire.

The ⁠Department of Environmental Health will continue conducting air quality testing in areas heavily affected every three hours.

Residents in the area are encouraged to;

  • Stay indoors
  • Keep windows and doors closed
  • Set air conditioning to recirculate mode if available
  • Reduce outdoor activities under the conditions that improve

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as they become available. The public is urged to continue following official advice and guidance issued by the Cayman Islands Government.

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