All public schools in the territory are closed Wednesday as heavy winds and rain from Tropical Storm Philippe lash the Virgin Islands.
The Education Department announced the closures just before 7 a.m. Wednesday.
“All essential employees to include kitchen workers, custodians, maintenance workers, and school administrative teams, are required to report to their designated campuses to assess conditions,” the department said.
“State and district employees are also required to report to their workstations. VIDE will continue to monitor weather conditions and reports and will provide further updates regarding school operations,” the release stated.
According to the National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico, heavy rain and gusty winds from Philippe are expected to continue through Thursday. As of Wednesday morning, the storm was northeast of the Virgin Islands.
A small craft advisory is in effect and boaters are advised to exercise caution.
