The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has activated a Flash-Flood Watch for the island as a tropical wave sweeps across the region, bringing intermittent heavy showers. Issued early Friday, October 31, 2025, the alert warns of potential flash flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas, with rainfall totals expected to reach up to two inches. Conditions are forecast to improve by late Friday night, but residents are advised to remain vigilant. Sudden flooding on roads, fields, and properties could disrupt travel, while water levels in drains and ponds may rise significantly. The BMS emphasizes the importance of adhering to guidance from the Department of Emergency Management (DEM) and staying updated through official channels, including the Government Information Service. A Flash-Flood Watch indicates favorable conditions for flooding but does not guarantee its occurrence. The watch remains in effect until 6:00 p.m. Friday or until further updates are provided. For real-time information, visit www.barbadosweather.org or contact the BMS at 535-0022.
分类： society
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Liberty Caribbean Foundation mobilises relief for Jamaica
In response to the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, the Liberty Caribbean Foundation has launched an immediate regional relief initiative to aid affected families, employees, and communities across Jamaica. The charitable arm of Flow and Liberty Business, in collaboration with regional crisis teams and partners under Liberty Latin America, has strategically positioned essential supplies, including food, water, emergency kits, and connectivity solutions, ready for deployment as soon as local authorities provide safe access.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of staff remains the top priority, with teams actively verifying the status of all employees. While outreach efforts continue, the Foundation is prepared to commence relief shipments at the earliest opportunity, pending official clearance.
Inge Smidts, CEO of Liberty Caribbean, emphasized the organization’s commitment: ‘Our first duty is to our people and the communities who rely on us. We have mobilized resources across the region to ensure a swift, coordinated, and responsible response. Wherever we can safely deliver assistance, we will be there to provide immediate relief and support long-term recovery.’
The Foundation is working closely with national and local authorities, community organizations, and trusted relief partners to ensure efficient aid distribution, avoid duplication, and prioritize the most vulnerable households and shelter populations. Simultaneously, Liberty Caribbean’s crisis-management teams are focused on restoring critical communications infrastructure and supporting employee welfare.
Smidts added, ‘Recovery will be a sustained effort. Beyond emergency supplies, we are committed to partnering with local organizations on rebuilding and resilience initiatives that restore livelihoods and strengthen communities. The Foundation will remain engaged for as long as it takes.’
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in southwestern Jamaica on October 28 as a devastating Category 5 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 185 mph, tying it with Hurricane Dorian (2019) and the 1935 ‘Labor Day’ hurricane as the strongest Atlantic hurricane landfall on record by wind speed.
The Foundation is calling for public and corporate support to scale relief operations. Donations will directly fund the procurement and delivery of essential supplies and support long-term recovery programs in the hardest-hit communities. Secure online donations can be made at: https://www.libertycaribbeanfoundation.org/hurricane-relief.
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IN PICTURES: National Youth Rally 2025
The Windsor Park Sports Stadium was abuzz with energy and enthusiasm on Thursday, October 30, 2025, as thousands of students gathered for the National Youth Rally. Organized to celebrate youth empowerment and foster a sense of unity, the event showcased a vibrant march led by students from diverse backgrounds. The rally, captured in a series of compelling images, highlighted the determination and optimism of the younger generation. Attendees carried banners and chanted slogans, emphasizing themes of education, equality, and sustainable development. The event also featured speeches from prominent youth leaders, who urged their peers to take an active role in shaping the future. The National Youth Rally served as a powerful reminder of the potential of young minds to drive positive change in society.
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Deacons Primary closed, ministry steps up rodent control
Deacons Primary School in St Michael will remain closed on Friday, October 31, 2025, as the Ministry of Educational Transformation escalates its efforts to address a severe rodent infestation plaguing the institution. This marks the third closure this week, following shutdowns on Monday and Thursday due to reports of vermin on the premises. In a statement released on Thursday night, the ministry confirmed that extensive remediation work is underway to restore hygienic and safe conditions at the school. The ministry emphasized the interconnectedness of schools and their surrounding communities, stating, ‘Our schools are not only vital to our communities but are also physically embedded within them. Consequently, issues affecting the community inevitably impact the school environment.’ The Educational Transformation Management Unit (ETMU) is investigating potential lapses that may have allowed the rodents to infiltrate the school grounds. The unit is collaborating with the school’s leadership to implement recommendations aimed at upholding the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Over the next 72 hours, staff will focus on decluttering the premises as part of the cleanup process. The ministry also announced plans to enhance monitoring and enforcement of waste management practices across all schools nationwide to minimize opportunities for vermin to thrive. Officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining open communication with education stakeholders, who have expressed support for the ongoing remediation efforts. The ministry reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring safe and healthy environments in all schools across the island.
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Director of Tourism USA Office Dean Fenton Supports the Denis Bowers Rehabilitation Centre with donation
Dean Fenton, Director of Tourism at the USA Office, made a significant contribution to the Denis Bowers Rehabilitation Centre (DBRC) in Antigua and Barbuda on Friday by donating essential care items. The donation aligns with the centre’s mission to transform the lives of young men through holistic rehabilitation, education, and reintegration. Formerly known as the Boys Training School, the DBRC was relaunched in February 2025 under the motto “Building Brighter Futures Together.” Fenton, an Antiguan expatriate, emphasized the importance of giving back, stating, “What the DBRC is doing here is truly transformative. It’s not just about rehabilitation; it’s about restoration.” The donated items included personal care supplies, cleaning products, and vitamins. Randy Christopher, the Centre Director, expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting its motivational impact on both staff and residents. “Your support and words of encouragement go a long way in motivating our team and the young men we serve,” he said. During a facility tour, Fenton commended the centre’s comprehensive approach, which integrates education, wellness, discipline, and vocational training to prepare residents for societal reintegration. The initiative was coordinated by Angelica O’Donoghue as part of broader efforts to engage Antiguans and Barbudans, both locally and abroad, in supporting institutions that empower the nation’s youth.
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LETTER: Facts over Hearsay
Dear Editor, I recently came across a letter expressing concerns about the St. John Hospice, and I must say, it seemed more like an emotional outcry than a well-substantiated critique. As someone who experienced the hospice’s services firsthand during a deeply challenging time, I feel compelled to share my perspective. Five years ago, my family entrusted the care of a loved one to St. John Hospice, and we were met with nothing but compassion, dignity, and professionalism. The staff and management went above and beyond to ensure our loved one’s comfort and provided unwavering support to our family. While no institution is flawless, every concern we raised was addressed promptly and respectfully. The letter’s criticism of the mask policy, which has been in place since the COVID-19 pandemic, feels misplaced and, frankly, like an attempt to stir controversy rather than address genuine issues. It’s also important to note that St. John Hospice is a privately run organization, not a government entity. This distinction seems to have been overlooked, leading to unfounded accusations and a tone of entitlement in the original letter. Instead of publicly airing grievances based on hearsay, individuals with concerns should approach management directly. St. John Hospice remains a vital institution offering exceptional end-of-life care on this island. Rather than tearing it down, we should focus on supporting and strengthening its mission. Sincerely, A voice of perspective over outrage.
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432 Graduate from UWI Five Islands Life Long Learning Unit
The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus marked a significant milestone on Thursday by awarding certificates to 432 graduates from its Life Long Learning Unit. The ceremony, held at the campus’s Assembly Hall, was graced by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, alongside university officials, families, and friends. Paula Lee, Head of the Life Long Learning Unit, highlighted the increasing number of graduates as a testament to Antigua and Barbuda’s dedication to continuous education and skills enhancement. Nickishia Carr-Ramkellawan, an employee of CARDI, emerged as the top achiever, having completed four courses with the highest average. Dr. Camille Samuel, the Campus Registrar, delivered an inspiring address, encouraging graduates to embrace the values of active listening, responsible action, and the application of their knowledge to benefit others. Notably, the ceremony also celebrated the achievements of 11 inmates from His Majesty’s Prison, who successfully completed the Seeds of Hope Programme through scholarships. With its 2026 programme already announced, the Life Long Learning Unit is urging prospective students to register early to secure their spots.
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Andrew removed from roll of the peerage after losing prince title and Windsor home
In a decisive move, Buckingham Palace has confirmed the removal of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor’s name from the roll of the peerage, marking a significant step in the formal revocation of his royal titles. The announcement, made late Thursday evening, follows months of mounting pressure surrounding Andrew’s controversial private life. This decision strips him of his “prince” title and necessitates his departure from his royal residence in Windsor. The dramatic statement from the Palace comes in the wake of renewed allegations in a posthumous memoir by Virginia Giuffre, who claims she was coerced into sexual encounters with Andrew as a teenager—allegations he has consistently denied. While Giuffre’s brother, Sky Roberts, has expressed approval of King Charles’s action, he emphasized to the BBC that further investigation is necessary to address the gravity of the accusations. This development underscores the monarchy’s efforts to distance itself from scandal and uphold its public image.
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Ann Hill School celebrates 43 years of excellence
Ann Hill School commemorated its 43rd anniversary with a vibrant celebration that united students, staff, parents, and supporters. The event, held under the school’s annual theme, ‘Nothing is impossible with God,’ also featured the induction of eight prefects, symbolizing a new chapter in the institution’s legacy. Principal Emelda Bell addressed the gathering, highlighting the school’s enduring mission to foster integrity, discipline, teamwork, and resilience among its students. She emphasized the importance of nurturing well-rounded citizens of Barbados and lauded the unwavering dedication of teachers and parents. Bell urged parents to continue supporting their children’s growth, while teachers were praised for their commitment and care. Reverend Kenroy Marshall, guest speaker and project accountant in the Ministry of Educational Transformation, inspired students and prefects to embrace leadership rooted in kindness. He encouraged them to be catalysts for positive change within the school community, emphasizing that leadership begins with simple acts of compassion. Marshall challenged the new prefects to serve as bridges between teachers and peers, urging them to initiate change rather than wait for it. The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt prayer and a collective pledge by students to uphold the school’s motto, reaffirming their faith and determination to achieve greatness.
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Cooks Landfill Road Upgrade Strengthens Community Access and Infrastructure
Significant infrastructure improvements are currently in progress along Cooks Landfill Road, marking a pivotal step in the broader initiative to fortify the national road network. These enhancements are primarily focused on elevating safety standards, improving accessibility, and bolstering the overall resilience of the transportation system. The ongoing concrete works are part of a strategic plan to address long-standing concerns and ensure the road network can withstand future challenges. Local authorities have emphasized the importance of these upgrades in fostering safer travel conditions and supporting community connectivity. The project aligns with national objectives to modernize infrastructure and promote sustainable development. Residents and commuters are encouraged to stay informed about progress updates and potential temporary disruptions as the work continues.