BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF) has issued a stark warning for the region, forecasting an escalation of severe weather phenomena and persistent drought conditions linked to unusually warm waters in the Tropical North Atlantic Ocean. According to the latest Caribbean Climate Outlook Newsletter, this anomalous oceanic heat is set to trigger significant climatic disruptions beginning as early as April. Southern Belize, the Guianas, the Greater Antilles, and the mountainous zones of the Lesser Antilles are identified as areas of particular concern for intense weather activity. The forecast period encompasses the tail end of the dry season, which peaks in March, and the subsequent transition into the region’s heat season. Beyond severe storms, the continued warmth elevates the potential for severe flooding, flash floods, and cascading environmental hazards from April or May onward. Concurrently, short dry spells are predicted to peak in frequency, especially impacting the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) and the Lesser Antilles. Furthermore, episodes of significant heat discomfort are anticipated to emerge by March in inland areas of Belize, the Guianas, and Trinidad, spreading to other parts of the Caribbean by April and becoming more widespread in May. Critically, CariCOF emphasizes that projected rainfall will be insufficient to alleviate long-term drought conditions. The ABC Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, and the Windward Islands are specifically noted, with Grenada facing an imminent long-term drought by the end of May. A status update as of January 1st detailed that moderate short-term drought has already developed in eastern Guadeloupe, St. Croix, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Sint Maarten/St-Martin, St. Vincent, far southeast Suriname, and Aruba. The prognosis for the end of May also indicates that long-term drought is evolving in the ABC islands, Dominica, Martinique, and St. Vincent, with potential development or continuation in northern Dominican Republic, Saint Martin, and St. Barts.
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Russia strikes kill six, hit passenger train in Ukraine
Ukrainian officials reported on Monday that a series of Russian military strikes resulted in the deaths of at least six civilians across multiple regions, underscoring a continued escalation in attacks on civilian infrastructure. The assaults included a targeted drone strike on a moving passenger train, marking a concerning tactical shift in the ongoing conflict.
The eastern city of Kramatorsk, a key Ukrainian defensive position facing advancing Russian forces, suffered significant casualties with three civilians killed in the bombardment. Separately, rescue workers in the central Dnipropetrovsk region recovered the body of a 55-year-old man from the rubble of a destroyed residential building. Later that same day, a precision drone attack struck a moving train in the region, resulting in one additional fatality and injuring seven passengers. Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba confirmed that the train’s crew executed an emergency stop, enabling the immediate evacuation and provision of first aid to those wounded.
This incident aligns with observations from Ukrainian Railways CEO Oleksandr Pertsovskyi, who noted last month a strategic increase in Russian attempts to sever critical transportation links, effectively isolating regions within Ukraine. In the northern Chernigiv region, which shares a border with Russia, local authorities announced the death of an elderly woman, born in 1937, from shelling.
The persistent bombardment of urban centers and energy grids continues despite international diplomatic efforts, including a U.S. push for negotiations. The conflict, initiated by Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, remains the deadliest in Europe since World War II, having claimed hundreds of thousands of military and civilian lives.
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China backs Iran ‘defending sovereignty’, vows to push for peace
BEIJING—Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed Beijing’s firm support for Tehran during a critical telephone discussion with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on Monday, as military confrontations intensified across the Middle East. The diplomatic exchange occurred amid escalating violence that has claimed hundreds of lives since Saturday when combined US-Israeli operations initiated strikes against multiple targets within Iranian territory.
According to state broadcaster CCTV, Wang Yi emphasized China’s commitment to the longstanding Sino-Iranian relationship, stating Beijing ‘cherishes the traditional friendship between China and Iran, supports Iran in defending its sovereignty, security, territorial integrity, and national dignity.’ The foreign minister further articulated China’s position that Tehran has the right to protect its legitimate interests against external military actions.
In a series of coordinated diplomatic communications, Wang Yi separately addressed Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi and France’s Jean-Noel Barrot, condemning what he characterized as violations of international law by the United States and Israel. Wang accused both nations of ‘deliberately instigating a war against Iran’ and violating the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter through their military campaigns.
The Chinese diplomat warned of dangerous global implications, cautioning that the current trajectory risked a ‘regression to the law of the jungle’ where major powers could arbitrarily attack other nations based on military superiority. Wang Yi called for immediate cessation of military operations by US and Israeli forces to prevent further regional escalation and advocated for returning the Iranian nuclear issue to political and diplomatic settlement processes.
China positioned itself as a potential mediator, with Wang Yi expressing Beijing’s willingness to ‘play a constructive role through the platform of the UN Security Council’ by upholding international justice and striving for peaceful conflict resolution. The diplomatic interventions occurred alongside reports that Tehran had responded to initial strikes with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel, Gulf states, and a British military installation in Cyprus.
The conflict has already resulted in significant casualties, including four US military personnel killed in combat operations. US President Donald Trump has indicated that hostilities with Iran could persist for several weeks, suggesting prolonged regional instability.
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PM opens $2.1m Mayaguana airport tied to 2,000-job seaport project
The Bahamian government has inaugurated a transformative $2.1 million airport terminal on Mayaguana Island, marking a significant milestone in its infrastructure modernization agenda. Prime Minister Philip Davis officially commissioned the facility during Saturday’s ceremony, declaring it would fundamentally reshape the island’s economic trajectory while ensuring the southern Bahamas receives equitable development attention.
The newly operational terminal at Abraham’s Bay Airport spans approximately 3,200 square feet and represents a substantial upgrade in passenger amenities. The climate-controlled facility features expanded ticketing services with seating for thirty travelers, dedicated airline offices, advanced baggage screening capabilities, public restrooms, commercial vendor spaces, and an integrated police station with detention facilities. The existing 6,700-foot runway accommodates mid-size jet aircraft, currently facilitating scheduled domestic flights between Mayaguana and Nassau.
This aviation infrastructure project serves as the initial component of a comprehensive development strategy that includes a planned three-phase deepwater seaport developed through public-private partnership. The envisioned maritime facility will incorporate specialized marine offloading infrastructure, cruise passenger terminals, and deepwater transshipment capabilities alongside adjacent land development initiatives.
Prime Minister Davis emphasized the project’s employment potential, projecting approximately 2,000 new jobs throughout the development lifecycle. “The economy of Mayaguana will be forever changed by this progress,” Davis stated. “This is just the beginning of our plans. The southern Bahamas is fully included in our plans and will not be neglected or forgotten.”
Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, overseeing tourism, investments, and aviation, characterized the terminal as integral to the administration’s nationwide 14-airport enhancement strategy. He highlighted the facility’s role in improving connectivity while preserving the island’s distinctive environmental and cultural characteristics. Cooper envisions expanded cargo operations and emerging industries, particularly commercial fishing, with potential direct export routes to international markets including Brazil.
Construction commenced in December 2024 with completion achieved during third-quarter 2025. Full electrical integration was finalized in January 2026. Government officials position the development as a catalyst for accelerated economic expansion throughout the southern Bahamas, anticipating subsequent investments in hospitality, education, healthcare, and supporting infrastructure.
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First aviation ambulance in Mayaguana under deal between govt and BACSWN
The Bahamas government has initiated a significant upgrade to its emergency medical response capabilities with the deployment of a specialized aviation ambulance to Mayaguana International Airport. This strategic move forms part of a comprehensive national aviation safety and emergency preparedness strategy developed through a collaborative Heads of Agreement between the Government of The Bahamas, Bahamas Aviation Climate and Severe Weather Network (BACSWN), and Response Plus Medical (RPM).
Prime Minister Philip Davis emphasized that this deployment represents the initial phase of an ambitious plan to equip Family Islands airports with advanced emergency response resources. The initiative directly addresses the country’s international obligations under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, which mandate specific emergency recovery services for participating nations.
The Mayaguana deployment marks the first of approximately 50 aviation-spec ambulances destined for strategic locations throughout the Bahamian archipelago. These vehicles, equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and aviation-grade safety features, will significantly enhance emergency medical coverage across the nation’s 173,000 square miles of airspace.
A critical component of this initiative involves the establishment of the Caribbean’s first NextGen Meteorological Watch Office under BACSWN’s supervision. This advanced facility will provide real-time flight tracking, coordinate crash response and search-and-rescue operations, and deliver live meteorological updates for aircraft and vessels operating within Bahamian territory.
The comprehensive program extends beyond equipment deployment to include institutional support through a forthcoming agreement with the Department of Public Health. This collaboration will encompass service regulation, specialized training, and staffing solutions where necessary, ensuring sustainable emergency response capabilities across the island chain.
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Roberts Roberts healing in healing in hospital
NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Rupert Roberts, the 88-year-old founder and visionary behind the Super Value grocery chain, has provided a positive health update from his hospital room at the renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. In an exclusive communication with Tribune Business, the esteemed businessman confirmed his successful transition out of intensive care as he continues treatment for pneumonia, expressing unwavering optimism about both his personal recovery and the future trajectory of his enterprise.
The medical emergency began when Mr. Roberts was suddenly stricken with a severe case of pneumonia in Nassau, necessitating urgent blood transfusions. This prompted an immediate and heartfelt response from the Bahamian community, as Super Value employees and citizens alike rallied to donate blood after appeals circulated on social media platforms.
From his hospital bed, Mr. Roberts extended profound gratitude for the overwhelming support, acknowledging both the critical blood donations and the countless prayers offered for his recuperation. Social media channels were inundated with supportive messages from across the nation, including numerous testimonials from current and former staff members.
Medical procedures conducted by Dr. Duane Sands, former Minister of Health and Mr. Roberts’ personal physician, were crucial in stabilizing the businessman’s condition. Dr. Sands performed a critical intervention by extracting approximately 64 ounces of fluid from Mr. Roberts’ lungs, enabling his safe transport via air ambulance to the Mayo Clinic for specialized treatment.
Looking forward, Mr. Roberts anticipates returning to The Bahamas within approximately ten days, contingent upon medical confirmation that the pneumonia has been fully eradicated. During his remaining time at the clinic, he is expected to undergo a scheduled replacement of his heart pacemaker—a procedure previously discussed with his medical team.
Despite his advanced age, which he humorously dismissed by referring to himself as ‘still young,’ Mr. Roberts articulated strong confidence in the continued success of Super Value under the leadership of President Debra Symonette, who has managed daily operations for the past five years. He also highlighted the increasing involvement of his grandchildren, Patrick and Paige Waugh, signaling a thoughtful succession plan for the family business.
In a significant business development, Mr. Roberts revealed ambitious modernization plans for Super Value’s warehouse facilities, noting that the company is currently ‘operating in the Stone Age.’ The comprehensive upgrade project aims to double weekly shipping container capacity from 250 to 500 units, effectively catapulting logistics operations into the 21st century.
Mr. Roberts’ legacy extends beyond the supermarket industry. As the former chairman of Commonwealth Bank Limited from 1984 to 1992, he presided over a period of remarkable growth following the bank’s Bahamianization. Under his stewardship, the institution relocated its headquarters, expanded its branch network, and achieved an extraordinary 700 percent growth in total assets, surpassing $125 million while increasing net income from $1.3 million to $4 million during his tenure.
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Bahamians stuck in Dubai as PM warns of economic impact from Iran conflict
A severe escalation of Middle East tensions has left Bahamian citizens stranded in Dubai following coordinated military strikes and retaliatory actions between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The conflict erupted after the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in targeted strikes, triggering widespread missile and drone attacks across the region.
The immediate consequence has been the closure of most Middle Eastern airspace, creating travel chaos and trapping thousands of international travelers, including Bahamian tourists and residents. Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis confirmed his government is actively monitoring the situation, expressing particular concern for staff at The Bahamas’ embassy in Abu Dhabi due to its proximity to the Israeli diplomatic mission.
In Dubai, the night sky illuminated with explosions as defense systems intercepted hundreds of incoming projectiles. Air operations were suspended indefinitely as missiles targeted Israeli and US military assets throughout the region. While the United Arab Emirates reported successful interceptions of numerous threats, the overall death toll continues to rise rapidly.
Prime Davis warned of potential economic repercussions for The Bahamas, stating: ‘The stubborn elephant in our room is the cost of living, and we have very little control of costs. With the unrest in the Middle East, we expect oil prices might rise. We must minimize the impact on our citizens through tax relief on fuel imports or other forms of assistance.’
Firsthand accounts from Bahamians in Dubai reveal the sudden shift from tourism to tension. One traveler, who requested anonymity, described hearing explosions while celebrating a birthday: ‘We literally heard two bombs go up in the sky. That was definitely not the culture shock I was looking for. We hurried back to the hotel and we’ve been in here ever since.’
Tanaz Cunningham, a Bahamian business owner residing in Dubai, reported audible explosions every 30-60 minutes but noted that daily life continues with precautions. ‘It’s just a matter of staying inside and making sure no debris falls anywhere around you,’ she explained. Her husband, a Bahamian pilot based in Dubai, remains stranded in Tanzania due to airspace closures.
The Bahamian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued comprehensive travel advisories, urging citizens to avoid all travel to Israel, Palestine, and Iran. Additional countries including Syria, Iraq, and Yemen are categorized under ‘Avoid Non-Essential Travel,’ while the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain require a high degree of caution. All Bahamian nationals in affected regions are advised to shelter in place and limit non-essential movement.
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Dementia patient goes missing from hospital
A Bahamian family has leveled serious negligence allegations against Princess Margaret Hospital following the disappearance of their 72-year-old dementia patient relative shortly after admission. Felix Beneby, who was hospitalized on Saturday morning for hernia complications and scheduled for surgery, mysteriously left the medical facility without staff detection and was later discovered at his sister’s residence approximately 3.4 miles away.
According to family accounts, Mr. Beneby was admitted through emergency services following a four-hour ambulance delay. His son, Solomon Beneby, expressed profound distress over the incident, highlighting that hospital staff allegedly knew about the disappearance during Saturday evening yet failed to notify relatives until Sunday morning.
The family’s concerns are compounded by the patient’s critical medical condition. “The emotional and psychological trauma currently being experienced by my family cannot be expressed in words,” stated Solomon Beneby. “To walk at night from PMH to Malcolm Road with a hernia pending surgery scheduled for Monday, I cannot even begin to imagine the pain of each step on that uneven path.”
Medical professionals familiar with such cases note that hernia patients typically require careful monitoring as displacement of stabilizing devices could trigger severe internal bleeding. The family now demands explanations regarding security protocols and communication procedures that allowed the vulnerable patient to exit unnoticed and why emergency contacts weren’t immediately notified.
The Public Hospitals Authority has not responded to media inquiries regarding the incident. This event has reignited existing concerns about patient safety standards at the Nassau-based healthcare facility, marking another episode in ongoing scrutiny of the institution’s care protocols.
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Iran war spreads with strikes across Middle East and beyond
BEIRUT—The Middle East plunged deeper into crisis Monday as military actions initiated by the United States and Israel against Iran triggered widespread regional escalation, drawing Lebanon’s Hezbollah into active combat and threatening global energy markets.
The conflict entered its third day with renewed Israeli strikes on Tehran, where residents reported audible explosions, while simultaneous blasts rocked Beirut. The situation deteriorated rapidly as Gulf monarchies threatened retaliation following attacks on critical infrastructure, including a burning Saudi oil refinery and halted LNG production in Qatar.
General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, announced that US forces had established air superiority over Iran to enable continued operations. Meanwhile, black smoke billowed from the US embassy complex in Kuwait as Iranian forces continued counterattacks in response to the strike that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior commanders.
The conflict’s human toll mounted as Iranian media reported the death of Khamenei’s 79-year-old wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, from wounds sustained in the initial attack. Tehran resembled a ghost town with many residents fleeing, while those remaining faced scarce supplies and persistent aerial attacks.
The war expanded beyond the Middle East when an Iranian drone struck a UK air force base in Cyprus, prompting evacuations around Akrotiri and Paphos airport. Greece responded by deploying frigates and jets to protect its EU partner nation.
In Lebanon, the violence ignited fresh hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, with rocket exchanges and Israeli airstrikes killing at least 31 people according to Lebanese authorities. Israel’s army chief Eyal Zamir vowed to deliver a “devastating blow” to Hezbollah, while Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced an immediate ban on all Hezbollah military activities.
The strategic Strait of Hormuz became a battleground as three commercial ships were attacked following Iranian warnings, threatening global oil transit routes. International travel faced massive disruptions as regional flight cancellations continued, though Dubai announced partial airport reopenings.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth affirmed commitment to the campaign, stating forces would “go as far as we need to go,” while Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani vowed to defend the nation “regardless of the costs.”
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Buju’s son Jahaziel opens up about battle with sexuality, finding hope in Jesus
Jamaican music royalty’s next generation has opened up about a deeply personal spiritual struggle. Jahazeil Myrie, son of reggae-dancehall icon Buju Banton, recently credited divine intervention and his father’s controversial music with helping him overcome homosexual inclinations during an appearance on Sheena Lyn Hanson’s faith-based podcast, Sheena Power Talk.
In candid testimony filled with Jamaican patois, Myrie revealed his psychological battle, stating, “Satan manipulate your mind and your character” in reference to nearly “turning fish”—a local derogatory term for homosexual men. The young Myrie described how his father’s 1992 track ‘Boom By Bye,’ notoriously known for its violent anti-gay lyrics, ironically served as a catalyst for his return to Christianity.
“My father’s song dragged back my memory,” Myrie explained, recounting how the song prompted him to attend church the following day. This revelation comes with significant historical context: Buju Banton (born Mark Myrie) originally recorded the homophobic track as a teenager targeting a specific pedophile in his community, but later ceased performing it in 2007 before ultimately removing it from streaming platforms in 2019 with a public apology acknowledging the pain it caused.
Myrie, baptized earlier this year, emphasized that his struggle was primarily spiritual rather than physical. He cited repeated emotional hurt and rejection in relationships with women as contributing factors to his confusion, ultimately finding resolution through Christian faith. “God always shows up every time I am about to give up,” Myrie testified, highlighting perceived divine guidance in both his personal life and music career.
The interview clip, subsequently shared on Myrie’s Instagram, has sparked conversation about religion, sexuality, and the complex legacy of dancehall music’s historical relationship with LGBTQ+ issues.