Bucs Alert in Welcome Week: UVI Tracks Erin from Tropical Storm to Cat-5 Monster Skirting St. Thomas

UVI Monitors the Approach of Tropical Storm Erin; University Community Encouraged to Prepare. The University of the Virgin Islands is closely monitoring the progress of Tropical Storm Erin, which has maximum sustained winds of 50 miles per hour and is moving west with heavy rains expected beginning early Thursday. UVI asks all students, faculty, and staff to cover and secure all computers, printers, and sensitive equipment before leaving campus. University staff have begun preparations to ensure backup power systems are ready and to assess the need for sandbag distribution in the event of flooding. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to sign up for both Bucs Alert to receive urgent UVI updates via text and email, and VI Alert, the Virgin Islands' official emergency notification system.

UVI Continues to Monitor Tropical Storm Erin. UVI continues to monitor TS Erin, which has increased in wind speed to 60 miles per hour and is moving west with a forward motion of 17 miles per hour. The Physical Plant is prepared to distribute sandbags to protect equipment and assist with securing offices. The University urges all students, faculty, and staff to remain alert and ensure they are prepared. Continue to monitor Bucs Alert and VI Alert for updates.

UVI All-Clear: Hurricane Erin Update. Hurricane Erin has strengthened to a Category 5 hurricane and is skirting north of the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Outer rain bands continue to affect both St. Thomas and St. Croix with periods of heavy rain and gusty winds. UVI campuses remain on a normal operating schedule. Students, faculty, and staff should continue to use caution traveling in heavy rain and monitor official channels for any additional weather-related guidance.