In a significant development, the United States has authorized Trinidad and Tobago to proceed with the exploration of the Dragon gas field, located in Venezuelan waters near the maritime border of the Caribbean nation. The announcement was made by Trinidadian authorities on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment in regional energy cooperation. The Dragon field, which holds an estimated 120 billion cubic meters of natural gas, is a critical resource for Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean’s second-largest natural gas producer. The US Treasury Department’s approval comes six months after Washington revoked the initial permit, allowing Trinidad and Tobago to negotiate with Venezuela without breaching US sanctions imposed on Caracas in 2019. This decision follows a series of fluctuating US policies regarding Venezuelan energy operations, including the suspension of licenses for oil companies in March and the subsequent authorization of limited operations by Chevron. The Dragon field’s proximity to Trinidadian fields operated by Shell underscores its strategic importance. Despite heightened regional tensions, including a major US naval deployment near Venezuela, the permit signals a potential easing of restrictions, offering Trinidad and Tobago a lifeline to bolster its declining gas production.
分类： world
-
Tropical Storm Jerry Brings Risk of Strong Winds to Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda are on high alert as Tropical Storm Jerry advances westward at a speed of 23 mph (37 km/h), according to the latest update from the US National Hurricane Center (NHC). Currently positioned approximately 835 miles (1,345 km) east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands, the storm boasts maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (85 km/h) and is projected to intensify in the coming days, potentially escalating to hurricane status by Thursday. The NHC has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for the region, signaling the possibility of severe weather conditions and urging residents to prepare for potential impacts. Meteorologists estimate a 21% chance of storm-force winds affecting Antigua, while Barbuda faces a higher probability of 52%. Forecasts suggest that Jerry’s core could pass near or just north of the northern Leeward Islands late Thursday into Friday, with tropical-storm-force winds extending up to 125 miles (205 km) from its center. In addition to powerful winds, the Leeward Islands are expected to experience 2 to 4 inches of rainfall, heightening the risk of flash flooding, particularly in elevated areas. Coastal regions are also warned of hazardous swells and rip currents. Local authorities in Antigua and Barbuda are closely monitoring the situation and have advised residents to stay informed through updates from the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services and to take all necessary precautions to ensure safety.
-
Magnitude 4.0 Earthquake Recorded Near Antigua and Barbuda
A moderate earthquake with a magnitude of 4.0 on the Richter scale was detected early Wednesday morning near Antigua and Barbuda, as reported by the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI SRC). The seismic event occurred at 5:07 a.m. local time (09:07 UTC) and was centered at a latitude of 16.81 and a longitude of -59.77, with a depth of approximately 8 kilometers. The epicenter was located about 233 kilometers east of Saint John’s, Antigua, and 246 kilometers northeast of Roseau, Dominica. Preliminary data processed by a seismic technician indicates that the tremor was relatively shallow, and further analysis is underway. While there have been no immediate reports of damage or injuries, residents in the affected areas are advised to remain alert for potential aftershocks. The Eastern Caribbean region, where the earthquake occurred, is known for its seismic activity due to tectonic movements, which can sometimes lead to tsunamis or structural damage. Local authorities are currently assessing the situation and will provide updates if any significant impacts are identified. The UWI SRC continues to monitor the area closely, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in this geologically active zone.
-
Dominica amongst four to join regional fisheries group
In a significant move for regional collaboration, four Caribbean nations—Anguilla, The Bahamas, Dominica, and Montserrat—have officially joined the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) by signing the Agreement Establishing the organization. The signing ceremony took place during the Sixteenth Special Meeting of the CRFM Ministerial Council, held as part of the Caribbean Week of Agriculture in Saint Kitts and Nevis. The event, organized under the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat, marked a milestone in regional fisheries management. Representatives from the four nations, including Hon. Roland Royer of Dominica, Hon. Kyle Hodge of Anguilla, Mr. Montez Williams of The Bahamas, and Hon. John P. Osborne of Montserrat, collectively signed the agreement, underscoring their commitment to sustainable fisheries practices. Dr. Marc Williams, Executive Director of the CRFM Secretariat, lauded the decision, emphasizing the importance of their active participation in the organization. Established in 2003 in Belize City, the CRFM is an intergovernmental body under CARICOM dedicated to the sustainable management of marine and aquatic resources. The CRFM has implemented several key policies to enhance governance, including the Caribbean Community Common Fisheries Policy (CCCFP), Personal Data Protection Policy, Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policy, and Whistleblower Policy. These initiatives aim to promote transparency, integrity, and sustainable resource management. Dr. Williams also highlighted the CRFM’s efforts to adopt gender-sensitive approaches and incorporate the perspectives of youth and Indigenous communities in its initiatives. With the addition of these four nations, the CRFM now comprises 17 member states, furthering its mission to manage shared, migratory, and straddling fish stocks effectively. The organization continues to provide technical advice and consultative services to national fisheries authorities, supporting the conservation and sustainable utilization of marine resources.
-
WEATHER (6:00 AM, Wed October 8): Overcast skies, scattered showers today from Tropical wave; heavy rainfall, gusty winds expected from Thursday as TS Jerry approaches
A tropical wave continues to influence weather patterns across the region, bringing overcast skies and scattered showers, some of which may intensify to moderate or heavy levels, accompanied by thunderstorms. Residents in areas susceptible to flooding, landslides, and falling rocks are urged to remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution. Meanwhile, the Small Craft Warning and High Surf Advisory have been lifted as sea conditions are anticipated to improve today, with waves expected to reach up to 7 feet along the east coast and 3 feet along the west coast over the next 24 hours. However, the approaching Tropical Storm Jerry is likely to worsen sea conditions by Thursday, with swells predicted to reach 10 to 12 feet in open waters on the east coast and around 7 feet on the west coast. Mariners and coastal users are advised to stay updated on weather developments and remain prepared. As of 5:00 AM, Tropical Storm Jerry was positioned near latitude 13.3°N and longitude 50.7°W, approximately 725 miles east-southeast of Dominica. The storm is moving west-northwest at 23 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph and a minimum central pressure of 1003 mb. Forecasts indicate a gradual decrease in forward speed over the next few days, followed by a turn toward the north-northwest and north by Friday. The core of the storm is expected to pass near or north of the northern Leeward Islands late Thursday and Friday. Dominica is projected to experience rainfall exceeding 4 inches, accompanied by gusty winds, starting Thursday. Residents and stakeholders in Dominica are advised to closely monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Jerry as it moves closer to the islands.
-
Tropical Storm Jerry Strengthens as It Moves Toward the Leeward Islands
Tropical Storm Jerry is rapidly advancing west-northwest, with the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) closely monitoring its trajectory. As of 8 a.m. AST on Wednesday, the storm’s center was positioned near latitude 13.3 North and longitude 51.6 West, approximately 835 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands. Jerry is moving at 23 mph, with maximum sustained winds nearing 50 mph and a minimum central pressure of 1003 millibars. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for multiple islands, including Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, Guadeloupe, and adjacent islands. Forecasters predict Jerry will strengthen into a hurricane by Thursday, with its core passing near or north of the northern Leeward Islands late Thursday into Friday. Tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 125 miles from the center, and rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches could trigger flash flooding, particularly in elevated areas. Swells generated by Jerry are expected to reach the Leeward and Windward Islands by Thursday, potentially causing life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. Residents are urged to stay updated through their national meteorological services and adhere to official guidance. The NHC will issue its next full advisory at 11 a.m. AST.
-
TS Jerry forecast to become a hurricane soon, watches in place for Antigua and Barbuda
Tropical Storm Jerry is rapidly advancing toward the northern Leeward Islands, posing significant threats of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and dangerous surf conditions. As of 500 AM AST on October 8, 2025, the storm was located near latitude 13.3 North, longitude 50.7 West, approximately 890 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands. With maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (85 km/h) and a current movement of 23 mph (37 km/h) toward the west-northwest, Jerry is expected to strengthen and potentially escalate into a hurricane by Thursday. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for several islands, including Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, and Guadeloupe. Residents in these areas are advised to monitor the storm’s progress closely. Forecasters predict that Jerry will bring 2 to 4 inches of rain, increasing the risk of flash flooding, particularly in elevated regions. Additionally, life-threatening surf and rip currents are anticipated as swells generated by the storm reach the islands. The next advisory will be issued at 800 AM AST, with a comprehensive update at 1100 AM AST. Authorities urge residents to prepare for potential impacts and heed safety warnings.
-
CARICOM nationals claim right to live and work in Barbados under freedom of movement regime
In a landmark development for Caribbean integration, Barbados has granted indefinite stay and employment rights to ten CARICOM nationals under its newly enacted Full Free Movement Regime. Ambassador to CARICOM David Comissiong announced this historic milestone on Tuesday, marking a significant step forward in regional cooperation. The beneficiaries, hailing from Belize, Dominica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines, were among 99 residents who arrived in Barbados last Wednesday, the inaugural day of the initiative. Statistics reveal that Vincentians constitute the majority of new immigrants, with 75 arriving on the first day, compared to 17 from Dominica and seven from Belize. While the new arrivals are entitled to live and work indefinitely, they must reside in Barbados for at least three years before gaining voting rights, as stipulated by Commonwealth migration laws. Ambassador Comissiong emphasized that this initiative is a critical breakthrough in the decades-long effort to establish the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), enabling Caribbean nations to pool resources and compete effectively in the global market. The regime excludes individuals deemed a threat to national security or public health, as well as those likely to burden public finances. Comissiong highlighted the broader context of the initiative, addressing the ‘brain drain’ phenomenon and demographic challenges facing Barbados, including an ageing population and low birth rates. He urged Caribbean nations to create an attractive environment for youth to remain and contribute to regional development, calling for complementary initiatives to enhance the appeal of the Caribbean community.
-
U.S. authorities intercept US$4 million cocaine shipment from Dominican Republic
In a significant operation at the San Juan port in Puerto Rico, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) intercepted 365 pounds (165 kilograms) of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $4 million. The illicit shipment, originating from the Dominican Republic, was discovered during a routine container inspection conducted by CBP’s Anti-Terrorism and Contraband Team. Officers uncovered eight concealed bags containing 149 brick-shaped packages of cocaine. While no arrests have been made in connection with the seizure, authorities are continuing their investigation. Roberto Vaquero, CBP’s Chief of Field Operations for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, commended the officers for their vigilance, stating that such interceptions play a crucial role in preventing drugs from infiltrating communities and highlight the agency’s dedication to safeguarding the Caribbean border.
-
Tropical Storm Watch Possible for Antigua Later Tonight
Authorities across the Caribbean have issued Tropical Storm Watches as Tropical Storm Jerry intensifies, posing significant threats to several islands. The governments of Antigua and Barbuda, France, and Sint Maarten have issued alerts for Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, and Sint Maarten. Residents in the northern Leeward Islands, as well as the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, are urged to monitor the storm’s progress closely. At 5:00 PM AST, Jerry was located near latitude 12.0 North, longitude 46.4 West, moving westward at 23 mph. Forecasters predict a decrease in speed and a turn to the west-northwest in the coming days, with the storm’s core expected to impact the northern Leeward Islands by late Thursday and Friday. Maximum sustained winds are currently at 50 mph, with higher gusts, and Jerry is expected to strengthen into a hurricane within 24 hours. Tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 140 miles from the center, with a minimum central pressure of 1003 mb. The storm is expected to bring 2 to 4 inches of rain, raising the risk of flash flooding, particularly in elevated areas. Additionally, life-threatening surf and rip currents are anticipated as swells reach the islands. Residents are advised to stay updated through their national meteorological services and heed local warnings. The next advisory will be issued at 8:00 PM AST, followed by a complete update at 11:00 PM AST.