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  • La Nina is back, but impact may be limited— US agency

    La Nina is back, but impact may be limited— US agency

    The United States National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed on Thursday that La Nina, a natural climate phenomenon, has re-emerged. However, its weak intensity is expected to minimize its cooling effect on global temperatures and its influence on Atlantic hurricane activity. La Nina, characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, typically alters atmospheric wind patterns, leading to increased hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin and reduced activity in the Pacific. This cyclical pattern oscillates between La Nina, its counterpart El Nino, and neutral phases. After a brief La Nina episode from December 2024 to March 2025, neutral conditions prevailed until the recent resurgence of La Nina in September 2025. The NWS predicts that La Nina will persist through the winter, with a 55% chance of transitioning back to neutral conditions between January and March 2026. Despite its historical impact on global weather, this La Nina event is expected to be too weak to significantly affect conventional winter weather patterns. The 2020–2023 La Nina was notable for its unprecedented duration, marking the first ‘triple-dip’ event of the 21st century. While La Nina typically cools global temperatures, it failed to counteract the trend of record-breaking heat observed over the past decade. The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, has been slightly below average so far, with no storms making landfall in the United States. Nevertheless, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) continues to forecast an above-normal hurricane season.

  • Police kill two in operations linked to Commodore mass shooting

    Police kill two in operations linked to Commodore mass shooting

    In a series of intense incidents in St Catherine, Jamaica, two men were fatally shot on Thursday during alleged confrontations with law enforcement officers investigating Sunday’s quintuple murder in the Commodore district. The police reported that two illegal firearms were recovered during these encounters.

  • Young Jamaica dismisses PNP concerns over ‘leaked’ IC reports

    Young Jamaica dismisses PNP concerns over ‘leaked’ IC reports

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The youth arm of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), Young Jamaica, has countered allegations made by the People’s National Party (PNP) regarding the premature release of Integrity Commission (IC) reports to a specific media outlet before their formal presentation in Parliament. The PNP, represented by Zuleika Jess and Nekeisha Burchell, recently voiced concerns over what they described as a recurring pattern of leaks, asserting that such actions undermine parliamentary authority, erode public trust, and suggest a potential breach in the official handling of sensitive documents.

  • WATA giving away tickets to Reggae Boyz qualifier against Bermuda

    WATA giving away tickets to Reggae Boyz qualifier against Bermuda

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Football enthusiasts have a unique opportunity to secure free tickets to the Reggae Boyz’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Bermuda on Tuesday, October 14, thanks to WATA’s ongoing ‘Celebrate Jamaica’ campaign. This initiative, a collaboration between WATA and the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), aims to galvanize local support for the national team as they strive to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

  • Toots and her cronies charged

    Toots and her cronies charged

    In a significant development in St James, Jamaica, law enforcement authorities have formally charged Shamara Forrester, also known as “Toots,” believed to be the mastermind behind a notorious robbery syndicate operating in the parish. Forrester, a resident of Railway Lane in Montego Bay, was apprehended on Sunday and initially charged with illegal possession of ammunition. Senior Superintendent Eron Samuels, head of the St James police, revealed the details during the monthly council meeting of the St James Municipal Corporation.

  • St James man charged with wounding with intent

    St James man charged with wounding with intent

    A violent altercation in Bamboo Lawn, Lilliput, St James, has led to criminal charges against a 33-year-old man. Duran Adlam, a radio operator from Ocean Heights, Lilliput, is accused of wounding with intent following a brutal attack on Sunday, April 20. According to police reports, the incident occurred around 8:00 pm when the victim was ambushed by Adlam and a group of assailants. The attackers reportedly stabbed and beat the man, who managed to flee to avoid further harm. The suspects fled the scene on foot, leaving the victim with severe stab wounds to his face and head. Emergency services transported the injured man to the hospital, where he was admitted in serious but stable condition. Adlam was later apprehended by law enforcement and formally charged. Authorities are currently finalizing his court date as the investigation continues.

  • Two eliminated as UWI’s King & Queen of Integration moves into high gear

    Two eliminated as UWI’s King & Queen of Integration moves into high gear

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The University of the West Indies (UWI) witnessed a thrilling showcase of talent last Thursday as the inaugural Integration King & Queen competition progressed to its next stage. After a rigorous elimination round, only six contestants remain in the race to claim the prestigious titles. The event, organized by the Guild of Students, aims to celebrate and spotlight the diverse talents within the UWI campus. The evening kicked off with electrifying performances at George Allyne Hall, where students gathered to cheer for their peers. Jada Lee Dawkins, a freshman, delivered a captivating rendition of Alicia Keys’ ‘If I Ain’t Got You,’ while Jaydar ‘Newzene’ Mitchell, a Science and Technology student, wowed the audience with a heartfelt rap inspired by a past relationship. Mitchell’s performance garnered the most enthusiastic response of the night. Other standout performers included Peter-Jaun ‘Kod3’ Palmer, Ryel Jones, and Zineil ‘Pablo’ Blackwood, who showcased their unique skills. However, Kaheil ‘KJ’ Brown and Eladio ‘Volture’ Coltas were eliminated based on judges’ feedback and audience reactions. Brown reflected on his journey, emphasizing the importance of confidence and stage presence. The competition, judged by music industry veterans Makiri Myrie and Jermaine ‘Tu Finga’ Parchment, continues on October 23, promising more excitement and talent.

  • Tropical Storm Jerry intensifying, as it closes in on Leeward Islands

    Tropical Storm Jerry intensifying, as it closes in on Leeward Islands

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Tropical Storm Jerry is gaining strength as it moves closer to the Leeward Islands, prompting weather warnings across the region. According to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center in Miami, the storm’s center was positioned near latitude 15.9 North, longitude 59.1 West at 11:00am local time. Jerry is currently advancing west-northwest at approximately 18 mph, with a predicted shift toward the northwest by late Thursday. A slower northward trajectory is expected to follow on Friday and Saturday. Forecasts indicate that the storm’s center will likely pass near or northeast of the northern Leeward Islands later Thursday. Maximum sustained winds have reached 65 mph, with higher gusts reported. Meteorologists anticipate further intensification, potentially elevating Jerry to hurricane status by late Friday or Saturday. In response, the government of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for Barbuda. Additionally, a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Antigua, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, Guadeloupe, and surrounding islands. A Tropical Storm Warning signifies that tropical storm conditions are expected within the specified area within 12 hours, while a Watch indicates possible conditions within 48 hours. The National Hurricane Center advises residents in the northern Leeward Islands, as well as the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, to closely monitor Jerry’s progression.

  • Ricki Di Lova pushes new track

    Ricki Di Lova pushes new track

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the vibrant world of dancehall music, where the 1980s saw the rise of controversial figures like Shabba Ranks and Ninjaman, Ricki Di Lova found inspiration in the lighthearted artistry of Professor Nuts and Lieutenant Stitchie. The Florida-based toaster now channels this playful spirit into his latest single, ‘Stand Pipe,’ produced under his label, Turbulence Intl Productions. Embracing the tradition of double entendre, Ricki Di Lova crafts an uptempo track designed to bring joy and laughter to dancehall enthusiasts. ‘Too much dark songs inna di dancehall. We are already living in trying times. ‘Stand Pipe’ brings a buzz! When di people hear it, dem get lively. It makes people feel good an’ stand up an’ rock!’ he exclaimed. Growing up in Kingston during the 1970s, Ricki Di Lova was immersed in the sounds of roots-reggae and hardcore dancehall. However, it was the emergence of humorous tracks like Professor Nuts’ ‘Inna di Bus’ and Lieutenant Stitchie’s ‘Wear yuh Size’ in the 1980s that reshaped his musical perspective. These songs not only dominated dancehall scenes but also secured consistent radio play. Ricki Di Lova believes ‘Stand Pipe’ carries the same versatility and appeal. ‘This song is perfect for di summer and all-year long. Di riddim brings a get up an’ dance vibe an’ di lyrics are fun. I’m trying to bring some humour into dancehall so people can ‘fulljoy’ themselves,’ he said. Through ‘Stand Pipe,’ Ricki Di Lova aims to inject a dose of levity into a genre often overshadowed by darker themes, offering listeners a chance to revel in the lighter side of life.

  • Students urged to use social media for growth and development

    Students urged to use social media for growth and development

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Shanika Crosdale, a former Deputy Head Girl at Edwin Allen High School in Clarendon, is calling on students to harness the power of social media for their academic and personal growth. Now a sixth-form student, Shanika emphasizes the importance of using platforms like TikTok and YouTube as educational tools rather than mere sources of entertainment. In an interview with JIS News, she highlighted the availability of online tutors, past papers, and other resources that can significantly aid in learning. Shanika, who excelled in all seven of her CSEC subjects, credits her success to the strategic use of social media. She urges students to balance their time between entertainment and education, ensuring they make the most of the opportunities available to them. Shanika also stresses the importance of honoring parental investments in education by focusing on academic achievements. Another student, Rickoy Thomas, who passed eight CSEC subjects, echoes this sentiment, advising students to remove distracting apps if they hinder their studies. The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information supports these efforts by providing online resources through its website and the e-Resources app, offering a wealth of learning materials for students, teachers, and parents. Additionally, the ministry collaborates with platforms like Google Play and BookFusion to provide approved digital reading materials and educational resources. Shanika and Rickoy’s insights underscore the potential of social media as a valuable educational tool when used responsibly.