Fri | Sep 19, 2025

Heavy rains cause power outages and force widespread closures in the US Virgin Islands

Published:Thursday | September 18, 2025 | 9:47 PM
Forecasters warned of flooding, landslides and dangerous river surges across the U.S. Virgin Islands and in parts of neighbouring Puerto Rico.
Forecasters warned of flooding, landslides and dangerous river surges across the U.S. Virgin Islands and in parts of neighbouring Puerto Rico.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Heavy rains forced the closure of schools, businesses and government agencies in the US Virgin Islands on Thursday.

A widespread power outage also was reported in St John and St Thomas.

Forecasters warned of flooding, landslides and dangerous river surges across the US Virgin Islands and in parts of neighbouring Puerto Rico.

The National Weather Service said a tropical wave combined with a nearby trough, which is an area of relatively low pressure, was to blame for the heavy rains.

The rough weather was not associated with Tropical Storm Gabrielle, which was approaching the Caribbean but is expected to remain over open water.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.