KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information has announced the closure of schools on Tuesday, November 5 due to expected adverse weather conditions as a result of Tropical Storm Rafael.

According to the US-based National Hurricane Center, the weather system which is expected to impact Jamaica starting Monday evening. The weather centre said at 4:00pm the centre of Tropical Storm Rafael was located 15.5 degrees North and 76.7 degrees west, with maximum sustained winds of 45mph.

A tropical storm warning remains in effect for Jamaica, as the system continues to move closer to the island.

READ: Weather system upgraded to Tropical Storm Rafael as it nears Jamaica

Minister of education, Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon in an advisory on Monday evening, said the decision to close schools islandwide came after consultation with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM).

“The safety of our students and educators is paramount. We are urging all schools to utilise online platforms where feasible so that learning can continue even as we prioritise safety,” she said.

Minister Morris Dixon said further updates will be provided as the Government continues to monitor the weather system.