All public schools closed due to adverse weather

All public schools across the BVI are closed today due to a severe weather warning.

Acting Chief Education Officer in the Ministry of Education, Orlandette Crabbe, said the Department of Disaster Management  (DDM) advised the closure of all public schools in the territory.

Crabbe said the decision is to ensure the safety of students and staff as heavy rainfall due to thunderstorms is expected to impact the territory throughout the day.

This decision follows a similar incident on May 8 when heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding, particularly in Road Town. Several roads were rendered impassable; even school buildings like Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) were inundated.

Crabbe urged the public to stay safe and take the necessary precautions.

While schools are physically closed, learning will continue remotely. Teachers are instructed to provide assignments via online platforms to ensure minimal disruption to the academic calendar.

The latest closure underscores the importance of disaster preparedness and the need for continued vigilance during hurricane season.

According to the DDM, the BVI has been experiencing downpours over the last 24 hours, causing approximately 2.5 inches of rain to be dumped on the territory over the period. It indicated that the rains could continue till midday today and another inch of rainfall can be expected.

Further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds. Parents and community members are advised to monitor official channels for the latest information.