No directive to close schools as Jamaica monitors Tropical Storm Melissa

The Ministry of Education has confirmed that there are no instructions for school closures at this time, even as Jamaica remains under a tropical storm watch for Tropical Storm Melissa.

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In a statement issued Tuesday, the ministry said it is maintaining constant communication with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica (Met Service), noting that Melissa has “slowed down significantly” and is expected to further decrease in forward speed.

Education Minister Senator Dana Morris Dixon assured that the safety of students and school personnel remains the government’s main concern.

“The safety of students, teachers and our entire school community remains our top priority,” the minister said. “I encourage our boards and principals to keep in touch with their regional directors to receive real-time advice and to communicate with parents and guardians. I urge parents to stay alert for any updates from their child’s institution.”

She added that the ministry will continue to share updates as information becomes available from the Met Service and other relevant authorities.

School boards and principals have been advised to assess local conditions carefully and make informed decisions about school operations under the direction of their regional directors.

The ministry also urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions as Tropical Storm Melissa continues to move slowly across the Caribbean Sea.

Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a hurricane later this week. While its slow movement reduces wind threats, it increases the risk of heavy rainfall and flooding in parts of Hispaniola and Jamaica. The storm’s outer bands have already brought showers and gusty winds to sections of Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.