As Tropical Storm Melissa looms over Jamaica, residents and authorities are ramping up efforts to minimize the potential destruction. The storm, which is predicted to intensify into Hurricane Melissa, has prompted widespread preparations across the island. In Montego Bay, workers were observed dismantling a large sign atop a building on Saturday, a precautionary measure to prevent it from becoming a hazardous projectile in the anticipated strong winds. The Western Parks and Markets agency has also initiated extensive clean-up operations to reduce the risk of garbage clogging drains and exacerbating flooding. With heavy rains and flooding expected, the accumulation of debris could severely impact drainage systems, leading to more extensive water damage. The community remains on high alert, taking proactive steps to safeguard lives and property as the storm approaches.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Melissa strengthens into hurricane as it takes aims at Jamaica
MIAMI, United States — Hurricane Melissa has escalated into a Category 1 storm, posing a significant threat as it moves at an alarmingly slow pace toward Jamaica, according to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC). The hurricane, currently generating winds of 75 miles (120 kilometers) per hour, is forecasted to intensify rapidly into a major hurricane within the next 24 hours. The NHC’s latest advisory highlights the potential for devastating flash floods and landslides in Jamaica and Haiti, with the storm expected to linger over the region for several days.
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#EyeOnMelissa: ‘Prioritise your mental health,’ says Health Ministry
As Tropical Storm Melissa approaches Jamaica, the Ministry of Health and Wellness is urging citizens to prioritize not only their physical safety but also their mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness, emphasized the importance of mental health during such stressful times, encouraging individuals to utilize available resources. These include the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline (888-NEW-LIFE) and the U-Matter Chatline, which supports young people aged 16 to 24. The Ministry also advises staying informed through credible sources, checking on vulnerable individuals, maintaining healthy habits, and seeking help if overwhelmed. Mental health professionals remain on standby to assist during and after the storm. For additional support, the public can contact the Health Emergency Operations Centre at 888-ONE-LOVE.
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Hurricane Melissa forces postponement of Army’s return leg with Mt Pleasant
The semifinal matches of the 2025 Concacaf Caribbean Cup have been rescheduled due to the anticipated impact of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. The second leg between Defence Force and Mount Pleasant Football Academy, originally set for October 29, has been moved to November 5. This decision was announced by Concacaf’s chief football competitions officer, Carlos Fernandez, who emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of players, officials, and fans. Jamaica’s Meteorological Office had upgraded the alert level from a hurricane watch to a warning on October 24, prompting the change. Additionally, the all-Dominican Republic semifinal clash between O&M FC and Cibao FC has also been postponed. The first leg of this matchup will now take place on October 30, with the second leg scheduled for November 6. In the first leg between Defence Force and Mount Pleasant, the latter dominated with a 5-1 victory, maintaining their flawless record in this year’s tournament. Raheem Edwards scored twice, while Kimoni Bailey, Shaqueil Bradford, and Warner Brown added to the tally. Defence Force’s Kaihim Thomas managed a late consolation goal. The rescheduled second leg will be held at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica. The Caribbean Cup champion will secure a direct spot in the round of 16 of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, with the second- and third-placed teams advancing to the first round.
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$59.2 b budget approved by Lower House
The Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago has officially approved the $59.2 billion national budget for the fiscal year 2025/2026, following an extensive five-day review by the Standing Finance Committee. The final vote, held on October 25, saw unanimous support from the 28 government members, while all 12 opposition members voted against the proposal. The budget, initially presented by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo on October 13, is based on projected oil and gas prices of US$73.25 per barrel and US$4.35 per mmbtu, respectively. Despite these optimistic projections, the fiscal package carries a deficit of $3.865 billion. The next phase of the budgetary process will commence on October 27, when Senators are scheduled to debate the financial plan at 10 am.
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Moonilal, Young spar over increased ministry allowances
During the final session of the Standing Finance Committee on October 25, a heated exchange erupted between Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young and Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal over an $82,000 increase in electricity allowances within the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries’ budget. Young, a former energy minister, questioned whether the hike was tied to the establishment of additional offices for Moonilal and junior minister Ernesto Kesar in south Trinidad. The increase was listed under the sub-heading ‘goods and services – general administration.’ Young argued that the additional offices were an unnecessary burden on taxpayers, particularly since the Ministry already operates from Port of Spain. Moonilal countered that the funds were allocated to cover arrears owed to TTEC, the national electricity provider, which he claimed were left unpaid by Young during his tenure. He further defended the southern offices, stating they were a long-standing presence in San Fernando and provided convenience for stakeholders in the energy sector. The debate intensified as Young also challenged a $150,000 increase in rent, which Moonilal attributed to unpaid arrears from the previous administration. Young accused Moonilal of excessive spending on office renovations, emphasizing that most energy sector stakeholders are based in Port of Spain. The session concluded without resolution, highlighting ongoing tensions over fiscal responsibility and resource allocation within the Ministry.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Construction Industry Council urges members and public to prioritise safety ahead of Tropical Storm Melissa
KINGSTON, Jamaica — With Tropical Storm Melissa poised to bring severe weather conditions, the Construction Industry Council (CIC) has issued an urgent call to its member organizations to prioritize the safety of workers, worksites, and assets. The Council is also advising the public to exercise heightened caution around construction zones, particularly avoiding unsecured or partially completed sites during and after the storm.
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Liverpool suffer fourth consecutive Premier League defeat at Brentford
In a shocking turn of events, Liverpool’s Premier League title defense continues to unravel as they suffered their fourth consecutive league defeat, falling 3-2 to Brentford on Saturday. The Bees, powered by goals from Dango Ouattara, Kevin Schade, and Igor Thiago, climbed to 10th in the table, while Liverpool slipped to sixth, potentially seven points behind league leaders Arsenal by Sunday. This loss marks Liverpool’s fifth defeat in their last six games across all competitions, raising serious questions about manager Arne Slot’s ability to forge a cohesive team despite a record-breaking £450 million ($600 million) transfer window spend.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Disruption to vector control activities likely
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Ministry of Health & Wellness (MOHW) has issued a public advisory warning of potential disruptions to vector control operations. Essential activities such as fogging, larviciding, and community inspections are expected to face temporary setbacks due to the storm’s aftermath. The MOHW emphasized that the hurricane is likely to trigger a significant surge in the mosquito population, heightening the risk of vector-borne diseases. To mitigate this, the ministry has urged residents to take proactive measures to safeguard themselves. These include stocking up on insect repellent, wearing protective clothing like long sleeves and pants, and installing screens on windows and doors. Additionally, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant in identifying and eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Practical steps include puncturing holes in old cans and securely covering water drums to prevent stagnant water accumulation. The MOHW’s announcement underscores the importance of community-wide efforts to combat the anticipated rise in mosquito activity and protect public health in the post-hurricane period.
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Kamala Harris says she could ‘possibly’ run again for US president
LONDON, United Kingdom — In a revealing interview with the BBC, former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris hinted at the possibility of running for president again in the future. Harris, who stepped in as the 2024 Democratic presidential candidate after Joe Biden but was defeated by Donald Trump, stated that she has not yet made a definitive decision about another White House bid. However, she emphasized that her political journey is far from over. The 61-year-old politician expressed confidence that her grandnieces would witness a female president in their lifetime, asserting, “I’m not done in American politics.” Harris, known for her lifelong commitment to public service, remarked, “I have lived my entire career a life of service, and it’s in my bones. There are many ways to serve.” Her comments, previewed on Saturday and set to air in full on Sunday, mark the strongest indication yet that she might seek the Democratic nomination for the 2028 election. The interview comes on the heels of her recent memoir release, where she criticized the decision to allow Biden to run for a second term as “recklessness” and accused his administration of insufficient support and occasional obstruction during her tenure as vice president.