Good night and God’s richest blessings to all the people of the Virgin Islands.

Thank you for your patience as the forecasting community, the Department of Disaster Management, the Acting Governor and I work diligently to decipher the conflicting signals emanating from the dynamically changing system that is Tropical Depression Karen.

As you would have heard earlier this evening, the Territory is under a Tropical Storm Warning, meaning that we expect tropical storm conditions in the Territory in less than 12 hours.

We are continuing to keep a close eye on Tropical Depression Karen as the weather system moves closer to the Territory, and until it departs our vicinity.

After taking into consideration the high priority we as a Territory place on the safety of our students, the Acting Governor announced earlier today that schools will be closed tomorrow—24th September.

Based on the forecast information available at the moment and the potential for considerable rain, we have decided that the public service, except for those who are essential workers or working to provide critical services, will close for the day tomorrow.

Whether you are at home or on duty, throughout the day, I hope and pray that you will continue to monitor conditions, as we know that there is always the potential for change.

May God continue to bless and protect the people of the Virgin Islands.

Thank you.