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Antigua and Barbuda are experiencing relentless rainfall this morning, with unstable weather conditions linked to Tropical Storm Jerry still affecting the region. Meteorologists have reported that Jerry has shifted northwest and is gradually moving away from the Leeward Islands. Consequently, the tropical storm watch for Antigua and the warning for Barbuda have been lifted. However, residual moisture from the storm continues to trigger heavy showers and thunderstorms across both islands. Forecasts predict rainfall totals ranging from 19 to 50 millimeters (0.75 to 2 inches), heightening the risk of flash flooding in low-lying or flood-prone areas. A flash flood advisory remains in effect until 8 a.m., with authorities urging residents to exercise caution, avoid flooded roads, and stay updated on further weather developments. The situation underscores the need for vigilance as the region copes with the aftermath of the storm.

In a landmark development for Caribbean regional cooperation, the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) has inked two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at bolstering fisheries management and advancing the Blue Economy. The first agreement, signed on September 30, 2025, during the Sixteenth Special Meeting of the CRFM Ministerial Council in Saint Kitts and Nevis, formalizes a partnership with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). This historic accord was executed by Dr. Marc Williams, Executive Director of the CRFM Secretariat, and H.E. Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, during the Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA), an annual event organized by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat. The MoU, spanning 2025 to 2028, aims to enhance governance, management, and resilience in fisheries, while fostering youth and women empowerment, economic development, and research collaboration in the sector. Dr. Williams emphasized the importance of formalizing the long-standing informal relationship between the CRFM and OECS, which includes eight shared member states. Dr. Jules highlighted the agreement’s potential to elevate collaboration to new heights, particularly in areas such as safety at sea, insurance for fishers, and the integration of agriculture and fisheries. Earlier in September, the CRFM also signed a five-year MoU with the University of the West Indies (UWI), represented by Professor Carl Justin Robinson, Campus Principal of the UWI Five Islands Campus in Antigua and Barbuda. This agreement focuses on academic and educational collaboration in blue economy development, marine spatial planning, climate change adaptation, and ecosystem resilience. The Centre of Excellence for Oceanography and the Blue Economy (COBE), a joint initiative involving the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, UWI, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and the Association of Commonwealth Universities, will play a pivotal role in supporting these efforts. These agreements mark a significant step forward in regional cooperation, aiming to create sustainable and inclusive growth in the Caribbean’s fisheries and Blue Economy sectors.

Caribbean Airlines has announced significant schedule changes to its regional flights due to the adverse weather conditions caused by Tropical Storm Jerry. The airline issued a travel advisory on October 9, 2025, alerting passengers to disruptions expected on October 10. Affected customers with confirmed bookings can rebook their flights without incurring change fees, provided the rebooking is done in the same cabin and completed by November 6, 2025. All changes must be processed through the Caribbean Airlines Call Centre or at a Caribbean Airlines Ticket Office. However, the airline has clarified that it will not cover transportation costs to alternate airports or hotel expenses for affected passengers. Specific flights, including BW 266 (Trinidad to St. Maarten), BW 267 (St. Maarten to Trinidad), BW 268 (Trinidad to Antigua to St. Kitts), and BW 269 (St. Kitts to Antigua to Trinidad), have been canceled. Passengers on these routes will be accommodated on the next available services. Caribbean Airlines encourages travelers to register for real-time flight notifications and updates via their website or check the flight status tab on the homepage for the latest information.

Tropical Storm Jerry continued its west-northwest trajectory on Thursday evening, passing just east of Barbuda and posing significant threats to the northern Leeward Islands. The storm, with maximum sustained winds nearing 65 mph (100 km/h), brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region. According to the National Hurricane Center, the storm’s center was located near latitude 17.5 North and longitude 61.1 West, approximately 45 miles (75 kilometers) east of Barbuda, as of 8 p.m. Tropical storm-force winds extended up to 175 miles (280 kilometers) from the center, affecting a wide area. Tropical Storm Warnings remain active for Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Guadeloupe, and nearby islands. A Tropical Storm Watch has also been issued for Antigua, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, Saba, and St. Eustatius. Forecasters predict that Jerry will turn northwest later tonight, with a slightly slower northward motion expected on Friday and Saturday. The storm is anticipated to bring 4 to 6 inches of rain to Barbuda and 2 to 4 inches to other parts of the Leewards, increasing the risk of flash flooding in low-lying and mountainous areas. Additionally, swells generated by the storm are creating dangerous surf and rip current conditions across the Leeward and Virgin Islands, with similar conditions expected to reach the Greater Antilles in the coming days. Residents and authorities are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to mitigate the storm’s impact.

In response to the imminent threat posed by Tropical Storm Jerry, the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) has announced the temporary closure of both VC Bird International Airport and Barbuda International Airport. The shutdown took effect at 6:00 PM on Thursday, October 9th, as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers, staff, and infrastructure. The decision was made following advisories from the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services, which highlighted the potential risks associated with the storm. The ABAA has assured the public that updates regarding the reopening of the airports and the resumption of flight operations will be provided as soon as conditions improve. Authorities are urging residents and travelers to adhere to safety guidelines issued by the National Office of Disaster Services and to take all necessary precautions during this period. Further announcements will be made as the situation evolves. For those seeking to stay informed, the ABAA encourages monitoring official channels for the latest updates.