Acting Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw reported there was generally minor damage to a few properties due to the adverse weather associated with the passage of a tropical wave across the island on Tuesday.
As a consequence, normal business activity will resume on Wednesday, and all nursery, primary, secondary, and special schools will be open.
“Following the early closure of businesses (Tuesday) afternoon – out of an abundance of caution – reports coming to hand so far from Disaster Emergency Management indicates that we have been spared the worst of the (weather) system,” Bradshaw said in a recorded statement.
“We had reports of roof damage caused by the heavy rains, and window panes being blown out because of the severity of the pressure from the wind. We have had one report of a tree falling on a house in St Thomas, which fortunately did not result in any injury.”
Bradshaw added: ‘While we are experiencing some showers across the island, the significant effects of the (weather) system have already been felt, and all government offices and schools will reopen.
“For commuters using public transportation, all public transportation has resumed.”
Bradshaw thanked Barbadians for their quick response to the early closure of business activity on Tuesday and appealed to them to take steps to ensure their safety during the prevailing hurricane season.
“I urge them to take this opportunity to check around their homes to secure palings and roofs, to clear up any debris and bulk waste that may be lying around, and to trim any trees that may present a danger to life and property,” she said.
“Remember that we are only at the start of the hurricane season, and given the unpredictable nature of recent (weather) systems, our best line of defence in dealing with climate change is to be prepared and pay attention to reports coming from official sources.”
The Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training earlier on Wednesday announced that all schools will be open, and it advised parents and students to exercise caution as they make their way to and from school in the prevailing wet conditions.
(AR)