标签： Antigua and Barbuda

A severe weather system has prompted the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Office to issue a flash flood watch for low-lying and flood-prone areas, effective until 4 PM today. The persistent trough responsible for the heavy rainfall has already deposited over 2 inches of rain in some regions within the past six hours, with an additional 2–4 inches expected in the next 12 hours. Residents in vulnerable areas, particularly near All Saints School, are urged to prepare for potential flooding and be ready to relocate to higher ground if conditions deteriorate or a Flash Flood Warning is issued. The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) has advised against driving or walking through floodwaters, emphasizing the life-threatening risks involved. NODS has also mobilized its district disaster coordinators and volunteers, placing them on standby to open shelters if necessary. Authorities are encouraging individuals who may need shelter to move early to ensure their safety. Local media outlets will continue to provide updates, and residents are advised to stay informed. For those interested in advertising opportunities, the most visited news site in Antigua offers customizable digital marketing packages. Contact details are available for further inquiries.

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a flood alert for the John Hughes area following reports of severe flooding caused by relentless heavy rainfall. Residents are being urged to exercise extreme caution, particularly by avoiding flooded roads and low-lying areas that are prone to water accumulation. Motorists are also advised to drive with heightened care, as roads stretching from Old Parham Road north to Utility Drive have become wet and slippery due to the ongoing downpour. In addition to the John Hughes area, heavy rain has also been reported over Vernon, with locals sharing images of the deluge as showers continue to drench various parts of the island. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have emphasized the importance of staying informed through official weather alerts. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines to mitigate risks associated with the adverse weather conditions.

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — As severe thunderstorms, relentless lightning, and torrential rainfall continue to batter Antigua and Barbuda, local authorities are issuing urgent safety advisories to residents, particularly students and parents. The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services emphasize the critical importance of adhering to lightning safety protocols during this hazardous weather event.

Meteorological experts have warned the public to remain indoors or avoid open areas when thunderstorms are active. The mantra, ‘When thunder roars, go indoors,’ underscores the dangers posed by lightning, even from distant storms. Residents are urged to seek immediate shelter upon hearing thunder or seeing lightning.

For those caught outdoors, officials advise avoiding open spaces, tall structures, and bodies of water. Students are encouraged to stay indoors until the weather improves. The ’30-30 Rule’ is being reiterated: if the time between seeing lightning and hearing thunder is 30 seconds or less, individuals should seek shelter immediately and remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.

Authorities have also highlighted that lightning can strike several miles from the storm’s center, making it essential to avoid electrical appliances, wired devices, and outdoor areas like balconies or porches during active lightning. A flash flood watch remains in effect until later this afternoon, and residents are urged to stay updated through official advisories from the Meteorological Services and local emergency channels.

This severe weather event underscores the need for heightened vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent injuries or fatalities. Residents are encouraged to monitor weather updates and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

The Fisheries Division Conference Room at Point Wharf was a hub of activity and optimism on October 15, 2025, as stakeholders from across the Caribbean convened for the Inaugural Annual Project Virtual Symposium on Next Generation Sweet Potato Production. The event, both in-person and virtual, marked a significant step toward enhancing regional collaboration in agriculture. Mr. Gregory Bailey, Director of Agriculture and Chair of the Project Steering Committee, delivered opening remarks on behalf of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Barbuda Affairs (MALFBE). He emphasized the importance of innovation, shared purpose, and regional unity in advancing agricultural development. Mr. Bailey highlighted the sweet potato as more than a staple crop—it is a symbol of resilience, heritage, and food security for the Caribbean. He underscored its role in value chain development, agricultural diversification, and the transformation of food systems. The symposium served as a platform to reflect on progress, consolidate lessons learned, and strengthen partnerships. Mr. Bailey also proposed the establishment of a Caribbean Sweet Potato Community of Practice to foster knowledge sharing and innovation. He concluded by reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to sustainable agricultural systems and thanked participants for their contributions to this transformative initiative.

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a flash flood advisory for the twin-island nation, alerting residents to potential minor flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas. The advisory, which remains in effect until noon on Thursday, comes as a persistent weather trough continues to bring heavy showers and thunderstorms across the islands. Radar estimates indicate that over an inch of rain has already fallen, with additional rainfall expected throughout the morning. Residents are urged to exercise caution, avoid flooded roads, and move to higher ground if necessary. Officials anticipate minor disruptions but do not expect major damage. Forecaster Patrice Edwards advised the public to stay updated through local media or contact the Met Office at 463-4638 for further information. The situation underscores the importance of preparedness during severe weather events in the region.

The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) has announced a significant update to this year’s 5K Poppy Run/Walk, with the event set to commence from Nugent Avenue, deviating from its traditional route. Scheduled for Saturday, 8 November 2025, the annual event aims to honor the nation’s military heroes while promoting community engagement through a healthy and meaningful activity. Organizers are encouraging residents to begin training and register early to secure their participation slots. Participants will also have the chance to win exciting prizes from sponsors such as Royalton Antigua Resort & Spa, Subway, Carlisle Bay Antigua, Wadadli Cats, The Hut, and Meg’s Total Wellness. The ABDF emphasized that the event is not only a tribute to military service but also an opportunity to foster community spirit and physical wellness. Registration is now open online, with additional details available on the ABDF website. The event promises to be a memorable occasion, blending patriotism, health, and community camaraderie.

His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda and President of the West India Committee, delivered a keynote address at a prestigious fundraising reception hosted by The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor of London at Mansion House. The event, held on October 13, 2025, aimed to support the West India Committee’s mission and celebrate its historic ties with the City of London. Attendees included members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and representatives from the Caribbean community. Sir Rodney highlighted the Committee’s founding in 1735 and its pioneering role in establishing the Thames Police in 1798, the world’s oldest serving police force. He praised the Committee’s enduring commitment to public service, humanitarian aid, and education, emphasizing its innovative spirit. In a gesture of recognition, The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress were awarded Honorary Life Fellowships of the West India Committee. Sir Rodney humorously remarked that the honor made them “honorary West Indians,” complete with the warmth and rhythm the title implies. He also expressed gratitude for His Majesty The King’s continued interest in the Committee’s work and referenced the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda in 2026. The Governor-General commended Mrs. Blondel Cluff, Chief Executive of the West India Committee, and Mr. David Wells, Charity Secretary, for their dedicated leadership. He also acknowledged Mr. Algy Cluff for restoring the memorial gates at Shirley Heights, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The evening concluded with Sir Rodney urging renewed partnership and generosity to support the Committee’s mission, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration between the City of London and the Caribbean.

Latoya Christian, a mother whose home was destroyed in a tragic fire earlier this year, continues to face significant challenges in securing stable housing for her family. Despite receiving essential donations such as food and clothing, Christian emphasizes that her most pressing need is a permanent place to live. She shared her plight with Antigua Newsroom, expressing her frustration and gratitude simultaneously. ‘I have been getting food, clothes, etc., but I’m in need of somewhere to stay. My daughter just had a baby, and I have others all over. It’s frustrating, to be honest. I’m not saying it’s anyone’s fault, but all I need is some assistance for somewhere to live,’ she said. The fire, which occurred in July, began in the kitchen when a gas hose caught fire. Despite her efforts to extinguish the flames, the blaze quickly engulfed the house, forcing Christian and her children to flee over a fence to safety. Among those affected were her six-year-old daughter, four-year-old son, and 21-year-old pregnant daughter, who has since given birth. The fire destroyed all their belongings, including clothing, documents, and baby supplies. Christian, who has been going to work without meals, relies on the school meal program to feed her five-year-old. She is deeply thankful for the support she has received so far but is urgently appealing for assistance to secure housing for her family. Those wishing to help can contact her at (268) 783-9068.