Antigua and Barbuda is facing heightened drought concerns as the Meteorological Service forecasts drier-than-normal conditions for October, with a short-term drought warning already in effect. Rainfall for the month is projected to remain below or near average, with a 75% likelihood of total accumulation around 120 millimeters (4.72 inches). Specifically, there is a 40% chance of below-normal rainfall, a 35% probability of near-normal levels, and only a 25% possibility of above-normal precipitation. Temperatures are expected to trend warmer, particularly at night, with the mean daily temperature for October estimated at 27.7°C (81.9°F). Daytime highs are anticipated to average 30.7°C (87.3°F), while nighttime lows are predicted to hover near 24.9°C (76.8°F). Looking ahead, the October–December period carries a 70% chance of below to near-normal rainfall, with conditions expected to improve from January to March 2026, shifting to near or above normal levels. Drought monitoring reveals that Antigua has experienced moderate to extreme dryness over the past three months, particularly in the northeast. The Meteorological Service warns that short-term drought is likely to persist through December, though long-term drought is not currently a concern. The situation is further complicated by a La Niña Watch, with a 71% probability of La Niña developing between October and December. This climate phenomenon could exacerbate drought conditions if rainfall deficits continue. The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service, in collaboration with the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology, is closely monitoring the situation, particularly in Barbuda, where limited rainfall data complicates the assessment of drought impacts.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
-
Peetron Thomas Advocates for Urgent Review of Harrison Centre’s Late Entry Policy and Student Treatment
In a bold public statement, Peetron Thomas, a second-year music production student at the Harrison Centre in Antigua and Barbuda, has raised urgent concerns regarding the institution’s entry policies and treatment of students. The incident, which occurred on October 1, 2025, highlights systemic issues that hinder students’ access to education and their ability to pursue their dreams. Thomas, who aspires to become a music producer, was denied entry to the school after arriving late due to an unavoidable emergency. Despite multiple attempts to notify the school, the non-functional phone system left him unable to communicate his delay. Upon arrival at 9:28 a.m., Thomas and several other students were turned away by security, citing a strict “no entry after 8:30 a.m.” policy. Even after appealing to the Director/Principal, Ms. Weste, Thomas was denied access without written documentation or consideration of his circumstances. Thomas argues that such rigid policies are counterproductive, particularly in a trade school setting where students seek practical skills and life opportunities. He emphasizes that denying education to students, especially those vulnerable to societal challenges like substance abuse and crime, exacerbates idle time and discourages personal growth. To address these issues, Thomas proposes practical solutions, including a system for submitting written excuses, fair evaluation of lateness circumstances, and written documentation for denied entry. His letter, shared publicly, calls for transparency, fairness, and humanity in educational policies, urging the Harrison Centre and its leadership to prioritize student rights and dignity. Thomas’s advocacy underscores the broader societal need for constructive measures that support students in overcoming challenges and achieving their goals.
-
Decline in Sargassum Blooms Brings Relief for Antigua and Barbuda
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua (Oct. 1, 2025) — Antigua and Barbuda are experiencing a much-needed reprieve from the overwhelming sargassum seaweed influxes that have plagued the Caribbean region this year. Recent satellite data from the University of South Florida’s Optical Oceanography Lab reveals a dramatic reduction in sargassum levels, dropping from a peak of 38 million metric tons in July to 10.4 million metric tons by September. While the East Atlantic still shows historically high amounts, the overall trend indicates a significant decline across the Caribbean. Marine officials confirm that the region is currently in the decline phase of the 2025 sargassum season. However, they caution that localized inundations remain possible as floating seaweed mats continue to drift through Caribbean waters. The sargassum blooms have had severe economic and ecological impacts, particularly on beaches and cultural sites like Nelson Dockyard National Park. Sub-surface accumulations have also blocked sunlight, threatening coral reefs and seagrass beds vital to marine ecosystems. Authorities emphasize the need for continued vigilance, as ocean currents and bloom dynamics could still bring new influxes. Researchers are working on advanced forecasting models to better predict nearshore movements. Scientists attribute the recurring sargassum blooms to climate change and poor resource management, urging regional collaboration to mitigate their effects. Despite the recent decline, the situation underscores the ongoing challenges posed by this environmental phenomenon.
-
Why Being Informed Is More Important than Ever. by Garfield Joseph MBA
In an era where information is more accessible than ever, a paradoxical challenge has emerged: while we are inundated with data, many remain uninformed. Social media feeds, emails, news outlets, and workplace communications bombard us daily, yet confusion, misinformation, and disengagement persist. This raises a critical question: What does it truly mean to be informed? Being informed goes beyond mere exposure to information; it involves understanding, contextualizing, and applying knowledge to enhance decision-making, foster engagement, and drive meaningful action. It empowers individuals to navigate their environments with clarity and confidence, transforming reactions into thoughtful responses and survival into thriving. Information reaches us through various channels—electronic media, workplace interactions, traditional media, casual conversations, and formal settings. Each source has the potential to enlighten or mislead, depending on how it is shared and received. In the workplace, for instance, unclear communication can erode morale, reduce productivity, and damage trust. Conversely, keeping others informed has transformative benefits. It increases engagement and ownership, improves decision-making, enhances collaboration, builds resilience in crises, and fosters empathy. Organizations thrive when leaders provide clarity and consistency in communication, ensuring employees understand their roles and expectations. This principle extends beyond workplaces to customer relations, community outreach, and national development. In critical moments, such as natural disasters or health emergencies, timely and accurate information can be life-saving. Leaders, employees, citizens, and media professionals all have roles to play in fostering a well-informed society. Leaders must communicate openly, employees should seek clarity, citizens must engage with credible sources, and media professionals must uphold journalistic integrity. In a world saturated with noise, being intentional about the information we consume and share is crucial. Filtering distractions, verifying sources, and prioritizing truth over sensationalism are essential practices. Being informed is not just a personal advantage—it’s a civic responsibility. Sharing what matters, staying engaged, and helping others do the same can change lives and transform organizations.
-
Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition 2025 Announced
The Department of Creative Industries in Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans for the highly anticipated Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition 2025. This annual event aims to capture the festive spirit through creative and dazzling lighting displays, encouraging both homeowners and businesses to participate. Registration is now open and will close on December 17, 2025. Forms can be collected at the Department of Creative Industries Headquarters on Old Parham Road, the INET office upstairs, or the National Festivals Office on Redcliffe Street and Corn Alley, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Pre-judging will take place on December 20 and 21, 2025, with final judging scheduled for December 28, 2025. Winners will be announced on January 5, 2026, during the Good Morning Antigua and Barbuda broadcast. Home entries will be categorized into East, West, North, and South zones, with participants receiving a 100% waiver on electricity services from December 15, 2025, to January 15, 2026, along with duty-free concessions on Christmas lights and decorations. Cash prizes of $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000 XCD will be awarded to the top three winners in each zone. Business participants will enjoy a 50% electricity waiver for December 2025, similar duty-free concessions, and cash prizes matching those for home entries. The competition promises to bring joy and splendor to the holiday season, fostering community spirit and creativity. For advertising opportunities, contact [email protected].
-
Antigua’s Junior Tourism Minister Kiara Kwenga to Compete at Youth Congress in Barbados Today
Antigua and Barbuda’s Junior Tourism Minister, 16-year-old Kiara Kwenga, is poised to represent her nation at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Regional Youth Congress on October 2, 2025. The event, a highlight of the State of the Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Barbados, will bring together young leaders from across the Caribbean to discuss the future of tourism in the region. Kiara, a fifth-form student at Christ The King High School, will showcase her innovative ideas on sustainable tourism, digital innovation, and cultural preservation. The Youth Congress, known for its lively debate-style format, challenges participants to address real-world issues facing Caribbean tourism, from enhancing visitor experiences to fostering community development. Kiara’s participation underscores the creativity and resilience of Antigua and Barbuda’s youth, as she competes for the title of CTO Youth Ambassador. The winner will take on the prestigious role of promoting Caribbean tourism globally and inspiring the next generation of industry leaders. The event is a testament to the CTO’s commitment to empowering young voices in shaping the future of tourism.
-
Greene Urges Healthy Living as St. Paul’s Marks Health Month
St. Paul’s annual Health Month has officially commenced, with Parliamentary Representative E.P. Chet Greene urging residents to take proactive steps toward improving their well-being. Running from October 1 to 31 under the theme “Healthy Lifestyle …things we can change,” the initiative aims to foster healthier habits through a series of activities, including health screenings, public lectures, radio programs, and outreach efforts to homes and schools. Greene emphasized that the campaign is not just about individual health but also about strengthening community engagement and collective responsibility. In his Health Month message, Greene highlighted the importance of mindful consumption, advising residents to “eat and drink wisely” and track their daily water intake. He encouraged active participation in the month’s events, framing the observance as both a personal challenge and a commitment to families, the community, and the nation. “Stay healthy for yourselves, your families, our community, and our country,” Greene stated, underscoring the broader societal impact of individual health choices. The initiative seeks to empower residents to make sustainable lifestyle changes while fostering a culture of health awareness across St. Paul.
-
Central Bank Celebrates 42 Years of Financial Stewardship and Stability
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) commemorated its 42nd anniversary on Wednesday, 1 October, marking over four decades of unwavering service to the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU). The milestone was celebrated with a special worship service on Sunday, 28 September, attended by ECCB management, staff, retirees, stakeholders, and community members. The event, led by Pastor Leroy Matthew of the People’s Evangelistic Centre, was a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the Bank’s enduring contributions to regional financial stability. Pastor Matthew praised the steadfastness of the Eastern Caribbean (EC) dollar, which has been pegged to the U.S. dollar at EC$2.70=US$1.00 since 1976, highlighting its role in fostering economic confidence. ECCB Governor Timothy N.J. Antoine, in his address, thanked God for the Bank’s journey and reaffirmed the strength of the EC dollar, backed by nearly 99.0% foreign reserves. He emphasized the ECCB’s commitment to maintaining financial stability across its eight member countries. Governor Antoine also honored the Bank’s pioneers, including Dr. Sir Kennedy Simmonds, Sir Cecil Jacobs, Sir K Dwight Venner, and Sir Errol Allen, while acknowledging the collective efforts of past and present contributors. In a poignant moment, he addressed the younger generation, explaining the ECCB’s critical role in regulating financial institutions, issuing currency, and safeguarding deposits. He urged both children and adults to value the Bank’s work and to pray for its continued success. The anniversary coincided with the Financial Information Month (FIM) Festival, a regional initiative promoting financial literacy under the theme ‘Financial Empowerment Through Education.’ The event underscored the ECCB’s legacy of leadership and its ongoing mission to empower the people of the Eastern Caribbean.
-
OP-ED- Last Stand: Trinidad And Tobago Races Against Time To Save Caribbean’s Final Investment Grade Rating
Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean’s last remaining investment-grade sovereign, is teetering on the edge of a financial precipice. Last week, Standard & Poor’s (S&P) downgraded the country’s economic outlook from ‘stable’ to ‘negative,’ signaling a one-in-three chance of a full credit rating downgrade within the next 6 to 24 months. This warning has profound implications for the nation’s 1.4 million citizens, who could face skyrocketing borrowing costs, reduced public services, and heightened economic hardship. The twin-island nation currently holds a BBB- rating, the lowest tier of investment-grade status. A further downgrade to BB+ would plunge the country into ‘junk’ territory, forcing institutional investors to divest and significantly increasing the cost of government borrowing. The stakes are high: Trinidad and Tobago’s potential fall would leave the entire English-speaking Caribbean without a single investment-grade sovereign. The root causes of this crisis are deeply entrenched. The country’s over-reliance on its declining oil and gas sector, chronic fiscal deficits, and stagnant economic growth have created a perfect storm. Oil and gas still account for over 25% of GDP, nearly 80% of exports, and the bulk of government revenues. However, production has been declining for years, and new projects require costly deep-water drilling. Meanwhile, the government’s debt burden has reached 81.3% of GDP, and the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund, built from past oil booms, continues to shrink. S&P has issued an ultimatum: implement fundamental structural reforms within the next two years or face junk status. These reforms include diversifying the economy beyond oil and gas, improving fiscal discipline, addressing chronic USD shortages, and strengthening institutions. While the challenges are daunting, Trinidad and Tobago retains some advantages, including political stability, substantial liquid assets, and sound monetary management. The country’s strategic location as a regional energy hub and gateway to South America also offers opportunities for diversification. The government’s response to this crisis will determine whether Trinidad and Tobago can avoid the fate of its Caribbean neighbors, such as Barbados and The Bahamas, which have struggled with high borrowing costs and austerity measures after losing their investment-grade status. The clock is ticking, and the stakes extend far beyond credit ratings. Success could position Trinidad and Tobago as a model for small island developing states navigating the transition to post-petroleum prosperity. Failure, however, would burden citizens with higher costs and eliminate the Caribbean’s last beacon of investment-grade credibility.
-
U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown Halts Facebook Updates During Government Shutdown
The U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown has announced a reduction in its social media updates due to the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. In a formal statement, the embassy clarified that its Facebook account will not be regularly updated until full operations resume, except for critical safety and security alerts. This decision stems from the lapse in federal appropriations, which has impacted various government functions. Despite the shutdown, the embassy emphasized that scheduled passport and visa services in the United States and at overseas embassies and consulates will continue ‘as the situation permits.’ The public has been advised to visit travel.state.gov for the latest updates on consular services and operational status. This move highlights the broader implications of the government shutdown on U.S. diplomatic operations and public communication.