BREAKING: Public Schools Closed as Heavy Rain Triggers Flash Flood Watch

Published
Schools Remain Closed as Flood Watch Extended Across Antigua and Barbuda

The Ministry of Education has announced the closure of all public schools today as persistent heavy rainfall continues to affect the island.

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services has upgraded its advisory, placing Antigua and Barbuda under a flash flood watch. The alert extends to several neighboring Leeward Islands, including Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, Anguilla, and the British Virgin Islands.

According to reports, several schools across Antigua have experienced significant flooding, making it unsafe and impractical to continue operations. As a result, the Ministry has granted permission for all affected schools to close for the day.

Principals have been advised to exercise extreme caution when dismissing students, noting that ongoing thunderstorms may pose additional safety hazards. Students should not be left waiting outdoors for extended periods while transportation arrangements are being made.

Parents and guardians are urged to collect their children promptly, keep them indoors, and use caution when traveling.

Residents are further reminded to monitor official weather updates and avoid crossing flooded roads or waterways until conditions improve.

This story was first published by Antigua News on October 16, 2025: antigua.news/2025/10/16/breaking-public-schools-closed-as-heavy-rain-triggers-flash-flood-watch. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (7)

  • Brianna October 16, 2025, 10:36 AM

    Why are they now making this statement??? We were warned since yesterday about the flooding. Now children are stuck at school in inclimate weather
    Reply
  • Rayma October 16, 2025, 10:37 AM

    Seem as if Raju Boddu departure angered the weather.
    Reply
  • Juju Bee October 16, 2025, 10:41 AM

    That’s the right move. Except that some students parents are still home so unless work is dismissed too it may not serve convenient for some people
    Reply
  • COMMON SENSE October 16, 2025, 10:50 AM

    Wow! I don’t see the point in meteorological services, if effective warnings and coordination cannot be made. This is rather late notice. Would have been more convenient for parents to be warned so children could stay home and not be sent to school in the 1st place. But Antigua nice bad.
    Reply
  • Tromos October 16, 2025, 1:52 PM

    At least the children are safe at home better than risking flooded roads.
    Reply
  • Watching@ October 16, 2025, 3:33 PM

    Why weren’t we notified of this earlier. It was dangerous to have allowed students to attend school with this pending flooding.
    This is blatant incompetence which put students and residents at risk. Was the flooding at the MET office the cause?
    Reply
  • Informed citizen October 16, 2025, 8:45 PM

    As much as I love a good storm day, this is serious business. Flash floods pop up fast and catch people off guard. Everyone should stay indoors unless it’s absolutely necessary.
    Reply

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