A tropical storm warning has been activated for the Northern Leeward Islands as Tropical Storm Jerry advances toward the region. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has alerted residents to brace for strong winds, torrential rainfall, and hazardous marine conditions, expected to intensify later this evening and persist into the night. Jerry is projected to pass near or just north of the Leeward Islands within the next few hours, with maximum sustained winds recorded at approximately 65 mph (100 km/h) and potential gusts reaching higher speeds. At the latest advisory, the storm’s center was located about 200 miles east of Antigua, moving west-northwest at 17 mph (28 km/h). Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts and Nevis, Anguilla, and neighboring islands have issued urgent calls for residents to prepare for tropical storm conditions, which could trigger flash flooding in low-lying areas and create perilous coastal conditions. The NHC forecasts that tropical storm-force winds and heavy rainfall will impact the warning zones through early Friday, accompanied by dangerous surf and rip currents. While Jerry may experience slight strengthening in the short term, meteorologists predict less favorable conditions over the weekend. Residents are strongly advised to stay updated through official channels and adhere to guidance from local disaster management authorities.
博客
-
Tropical Storm Jerry Expected Near Northern Leeward Islands This Evening and Tonight
A tropical storm warning has been activated for the Northern Leeward Islands as Tropical Storm Jerry advances toward the region. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has alerted residents to brace for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and hazardous marine conditions expected to impact the area later this evening and into the night. As of the latest advisory, Jerry is projected to pass near or just north of the Leeward Islands within the next several hours, with maximum sustained winds recorded at 65 mph (100 km/h) and potential for higher gusts. The storm’s center is currently located approximately 200 miles east of Antigua, moving west-northwest at a speed of 17 mph (28 km/h). Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts and Nevis, Anguilla, and neighboring islands have urged residents to take immediate precautions. Flash flooding in low-lying areas and dangerous surf conditions are anticipated, with swells from Jerry expected to affect the Lesser Antilles, producing life-threatening rip currents. Meteorologists predict slight strengthening of the storm before it encounters less favorable conditions over the weekend. Residents are advised to stay informed through official updates and adhere to instructions from local disaster management authorities.
-
BLTO vraagt president Simons spoedige interventie beroepsonderwijs
The Bond of Teachers in Technical Education (BLTO) has urgently appealed to President Jennifer Simons to address the escalating challenges within the vocational education sector. In a formal letter, the union warned that without immediate action, the sector risks further deterioration. The BLTO highlighted that despite a meeting with Education Minister Dirk Currie on August 22, no follow-up discussions have occurred, despite assurances of a second meeting within two weeks. ‘Five weeks have passed without a response, while the issues persist unabated,’ the union stated. During a recent conversation with Robby Holband, Director of Vocational Education, it was revealed that the minister now insists on collective consultations with all education unions, a move the BLTO finds concerning due to the unique challenges faced by technical and vocational education. The union outlined six critical issues requiring immediate attention: policy reforms lacking field input, the abolition of LBO levels A and B, the overly rigorous C-level SATS, the transformation of the ATV program into a three-year course, the centralization of Agro education, and recruitment and policy concerns. Additionally, the BLTO raised alarms about compromised security and hygiene in several LBO schools due to overdue payments. The union has called on President Simons to intervene, ensuring separate consultations with Minister Currie and clarity on the promised second revaluation for teachers. ‘Vocational education is the backbone of our nation’s development. Only through expert policy and professional input can we preserve and strengthen this sector,’ emphasized BLTO Chairman René Bilkerdijk and Vice-Chair Jenifer Ballo.
-
Defence Force welcomes new chief of staff
The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) has officially welcomed Captain Don Polo as its new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), marking a significant leadership transition within the organization. The appointment, described as a pivotal moment in the TTDF’s ongoing evolution, underscores its unwavering commitment to national defence and security. Captain Polo, previously the Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard, brings over three decades of dedicated service and a wealth of operational expertise to his new role. His promotion was announced on October 8, following the revocation of former CDS Air Vice Marshal Darryl Daniel’s appointment by President Christine Kangaloo, acting on the advice of Defence Minister Wayne Sturge. The leadership change, which took effect on the evening of October 7, was made public the following morning. Air Vice Marshal Daniel, who served for 37 years, including two extended terms beyond retirement age, was commended for his distinguished service and invaluable contributions to the nation’s security framework. The TTDF expressed profound gratitude for Daniel’s leadership, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to Trinidad and Tobago. As the organization embarks on this new chapter, it reaffirms its mandate to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while supporting government and public efforts toward peace, stability, and national development.
-
US grants government licence to negotiate with Venezuela on Dragon gas deal
The United States has authorized Trinidad and Tobago (TT) to initiate negotiations with Venezuela regarding the highly anticipated Dragon gas deal. Attorney General John Jeremie disclosed that the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued the licence on October 8, marking the first step in a phased approach. This initial phase requires TT to meet specific benchmarks, which would subsequently provide US companies with certain advantages. Jeremie described these conditions as both reasonable and achievable, emphasizing that the licence is valid for six months. However, formal discussions with the Venezuelan government have yet to commence. Despite the absence of direct talks, Jeremie asserted that the Dragon gas deal remains active, citing ongoing, albeit undisclosed, communication between the two nations. The announcement was made at the Attorney General and Legal Affairs office in Port of Spain, underscoring the significance of this development in regional energy diplomacy.
-
Sport ministry distributes $1.5m in funds
The Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs has taken a significant step in supporting Trinidad and Tobago’s athletic and youth development sectors by distributing $1.5 million in funding. On October 8, Minister Phillip Watts presided over a cheque presentation ceremony at the ministry’s headquarters in Port of Spain, where 15 individuals and organizations received financial support for their upcoming initiatives. The event, attended by Permanent Secretary Beverly Reid-Samuel and Director of Sports Gabre Jesu McTair, highlighted the ministry’s commitment to fostering excellence in sports and youth empowerment. McTair emphasized that the funding is not merely financial aid but a testament to the government’s belief in the potential of its citizens to excel on the global stage. Recipients expressed gratitude, noting the funds will enhance their training, competition preparation, and community engagement efforts. The ministry reiterated its dedication to building national pride and promoting social development through sustained investment in these critical sectors.
-
LETTER: Use Common Sense, Not Chaos, in Police Stop and Search Operations
In Antigua and Barbuda, growing discontent has emerged over the timing and execution of police stop-and-search operations. While the necessity of law enforcement to ensure public safety is undisputed, the manner in which these exercises are conducted has sparked widespread frustration. Specifically, the decision to carry out these operations during the morning rush hour—when parents are dropping off children at school and workers are commuting—has been criticized as inconsiderate and counterproductive.
-
TV anchor, public relations man Doug Hoyte dies, aged 75
The Barbadian media landscape is in mourning following the sudden passing of Doug Hoyte, a revered television news personality, who died overnight after a brief illness. He was just weeks away from celebrating his 76th birthday. Details surrounding his death remain undisclosed at this time. Hoyte’s illustrious career spanned decades, beginning in 1968 in the United States, where he worked extensively in media and communications. He served as a television reporter in Tampa, Florida, and briefly held the prestigious role of press secretary to Florida Governor Bob Martinez. In 1991, Hoyte returned to Barbados, where he became a household name. He co-anchored the “CBC Evening News” alongside Sharon Marshall in the 1990s and later assumed the role of General Manager at the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) from 2016 to 2018. Hoyte was also the beloved host of the breakfast television show “Mornin’ Barbados.” Beyond his on-screen roles, he held significant communications positions, including director of communications at Almond Resorts and founder of his public relations firm, Mountbatten Communications. Colleagues and viewers alike remember Hoyte for his professionalism, charismatic on-screen presence, and enduring contributions to Barbadian media over several decades.
-
ACSOM, RayAsta Foundation and gov’t of Dominica collaborate for Stroke Awareness Day 2025
The American Canadian School of Medicine (ACSOM) has joined forces with the RayAsta Foundation and the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica to organize Stroke Awareness Day, a pivotal event aimed at raising critical awareness about stroke on the island. Scheduled for Saturday, October 11, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the ACSOM campus on Ross Boulevard, Picard, Portsmouth, the initiative seeks to educate the community on stroke prevention, recognition, and rehabilitation. Dr. Sofiia Kozyreva, a rehabilitation specialist and ACSOM faculty member, emphasized the urgency of the issue, stating, ‘Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and death.’ She highlighted the importance of understanding risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, unhealthy diet, and smoking, which can be mitigated through early detection and medical intervention. The event will offer free health screenings, including blood pressure, blood sugar levels, BMI, waist circumference, cardiovascular risk assessments, and cognitive and reflex testing. Attendees will also participate in interactive sessions covering stroke anatomy, risk factors, lifestyle changes, preventive strategies, rehabilitation options, and resources for family caregivers. In addition to educational activities, the day will feature games, refreshments, and opportunities to interact with ACSOM students and faculty, fostering community engagement and learning. This initiative aligns with ACSOM’s broader mission to promote community health education and proactive disease prevention, while the RayAsta Foundation views it as a vital step in empowering communities through health awareness and education.
-
Grenada Co-operative Bank joins celebration of Grenadian stories
The Grenada Co-operative Bank Limited (GCBL) proudly supported the 2025 Grenada Book Festival, held on October 3–4, as part of its commitment to fostering creative expression and cultural preservation. Organized by Grenada Book Festival, Inc., the event united writers, authors, artisans, and book enthusiasts of all ages to celebrate Grenadian stories and literary talent. Ericka Hosten, Manager of Marketing and Customer Insight at GCBL, emphasized the bank’s dedication to initiatives that promote literacy and cultural heritage. She highlighted the festival’s role in showcasing local literature and encouraging reading among diverse audiences. The festival featured two key events: a professional development workshop for writers at various career stages, offering insights into the traditional publishing industry, and a vibrant book fair showcasing over thirty local authors and artisans. The Children’s Corner, a highlight of the fair, provided young attendees with opportunities to explore their creativity through story hours and poetry readings. GCBL’s sponsorship aligns with its corporate social responsibility agenda, which focuses on supporting projects that contribute to the nation’s holistic development. The bank’s involvement underscores its role as Grenada’s only indigenous financial institution, dedicated to enriching the community through cultural and educational initiatives.