After closing yesterday, February 7, 2024, due to inclement weather, public schools in the [British] Virgin Islands resume today, Thursday, February 8, 2024. Photo: Internet Source

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Due to the current inclement weather being experienced across the [British] Virgin Islands, public schools across the territory are closed today, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. Photo: Internet Source

According to a letter to the public from Chief Education Officer Orlandette R. Crabbe, the closure comes at the advice of the Department of Disaster Management (DDM). Photo: VINO

This was announced by Chief Education Officer (CEO) Orlandette R. Crabbe in a letter to 'Parents and Community Members'.

It said the Ministry of Education informs the general public that all public schools will reopen for regular operations today, Thursday, February 8, 2024.

"As advised by the Department of Disaster Management, persons are asked to exercise caution as intermittent periods of showers are anticipated throughout the day. We appreciate your continued support and cooperation as we work to ensure a safe and conducive teaching and learning environment for our staff and students," Mrs Crabbe stated in the letter.

What is the weather like today?

Meanwhile, DDM said unsettled weather conditions in association with a frontal trough will prevail across the islands over the next 24 hours.

Weather today: Cloudy to overcast skies with period’s showers and a 60 percent or moderate chance of thunderstorms.

Weather tonight: Mostly cloudy skies with periods of showers and a 20 percent or slight chance of thunderstorms.

Winds: West-northwest at 15 to 28 mph or 9 to 17 mph.

Seas: 1.5 to 2.4 meters or 5 to 8 feet in northerly swells. Therefore, a High Surf Advisory is in effect.

Sunset today: 6:16 pm.

See previous article published February 7, 2024

Public schools closed due to inclement weather

Due to the current inclement weather being experienced across the [British] Virgin Islands, public schools across the territory are closed today, Wednesday, February 7, 2024.

According to a letter to the public from Chief Education Officer Orlandette R. Crabbe, the closure comes at the advice of the Department of Disaster Management (DDM).

DDM in its weather forecast for today said a frontal trough interacting with a deep layered trough will significantly increase the chances for shower and thunderstorm activity across the area during the next 24 hours.

According to Mrs Crabbe, The decision to close schools today is to ensure the safety of students and staff as heavy rain, high winds, and reduced visibility are expected to impact the territory throughout the day.

Online platforms to be utilised

“Students and teachers are asked to remain at home. To ensure continued learning teachers are encouraged to issue assignments via online platforms.

“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in prioritizing the well-being of our school community. Stay safe and take the necessary precautions,” CEO Crabbe stated.

Our News Centre has been informed that some private schools have also closed their doors today.

Meanwhile, both the Tortola and Virgin Gorda campuses of H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) will also be closed today.