Public schools across the territory will remain closed on Wednesday as a tropical wave is expected to bring two to four inches of rain, Government House announced. The administration also confirmed that all central government offices, along with nonessential and non-emergency operations, will shut down. In addition, the University of the Virgin Islands has suspended all classes and employee work on September 24 due to the forecasted severe weather.
The Government House announcement follows a press briefing at 1:00 p.m. today that featured Lieutenant Governor Treganza Roach and VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen.
Earlier, the National Weather Service issued both a Hazardous Weather Outlook and a Heat Advisory for the U.S. Virgin Islands. On Tuesday afternoon, a tropical disturbance described at Invest 94 L was 225 miles southeast of the territory. Unfavorable weather conditions are expected as the wave passes near the Virgin Islands.
Scattered thunderstorms, particularly over the Atlantic waters near St. Thomas and St. John, could bring frequent lightning. Excessive rainfall is also a concern, as heavy rainfall last week saturated the soil. The tropical wave is expected to cause hazardous marine conditions, and small craft operators are encouraged to exercise caution. Life-threatening rip currents are also possible, and swimming in the open water is ill-advised. Heavy rainfall is expected to begin on Tuesday night and continue into Wednesday.
Mr. Jaschen appealed to the public to take care. “Unfortunately, from last week’s event, we are very saturated with rain, so it will not take much for us to go into flood conditions,” he said.
The VITEMA director is also encouraging the public to stay indoors as far as possible. “I know some cases you have to go out, but tomorrow is going to be very, very serious conditions for being out and about, especially in the morning,” he warned.
He has also advised the public to avoid flood-prone areas like the Gallows Bay area on St. Croix, “because that gut just washes right out to the street.” In other areas, manhole covers had been removed to address last week’s deluge and have not been refitted. Cones currently demarcate these areas, and motorists are asked to keenly observe their surroundings.
“If you haven’t had a chance to clean up from last week’s heavy rains and flooding, please make every effort today to get out there and clean your drains,” Mr. Jaschen asked as well.
VITEMA will issue electronic updates through the Alert VI platform. The Virgin Islands Police Department and the Water and Power Authority are also expected to keep the public informed as necessary.
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