Barbados’ education authorities faced renewed criticism this week as flood warnings forced an early closure of schools across the island. The Ministry of Educational Transformation mandated that all schools dismiss students at 1 p.m. on Monday following a flood warning issued by the Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS). However, parent advocate Paula-Anne Moore argued that the decision came too late, given the severe flooding experienced the previous day and the dire weather forecast for Monday. Moore emphasized that earlier action could have mitigated risks for students, particularly those reliant on public transport. The island had been under a flood watch since Sunday, when torrential rains caused widespread damage, including waterlogged communities and damaged roads. The BMS upgraded the watch to a flood warning at 9:38 a.m. on Monday, predicting ‘heavy to intense showers’ and potential rainfall exceeding nine inches in some areas. Moore criticized the ministry for its delayed communication, stating that proactive decisions are crucial in such situations. She also questioned whether a national protocol exists to guide school closures during extreme weather events. The ministry has promised further updates on school reopenings based on BMS guidance, while urging the public to remain vigilant amid ongoing unstable weather conditions.
Parent urges earlier decisions on school closures as flood warning prompts early dismissal
