Unprecedented auroral displays, typically confined to polar regions, have illuminated skies at unusually low latitudes this week, captivating observers worldwide. The phenomenon, driven by intense solar activity, is expected to persist into Thursday, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). These breathtaking light shows are the result of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) — massive bursts of solar particles that trigger geomagnetic storms upon reaching Earth. On Tuesday, a level four geomagnetic storm (on a scale of five) occurred, with another CME potentially causing a repeat on Thursday. Skies as far south as Mexico were adorned with faint pink and green hues, offering a rare treat for those who would typically need to venture closer to the poles to witness such spectacles. Last year, a level five geomagnetic storm — the first in two decades — produced similarly stunning views of the Northern and Southern Lights. However, these solar storms are not without consequences. They pose significant risks to communication systems, satellites, and power grids, potentially causing widespread disruptions. The impact of this week’s solar event has already been felt, with Blue Origin, the space company founded by Jeff Bezos, postponing the launch of its New Glenn rocket on Wednesday. For those eager to witness the aurorae, experts recommend seeking darker skies away from urban light pollution and using cameras or smartphones to capture the lights through long-exposure photography, especially if they are not visible to the naked eye.
标签： Jamaica
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‘It’s not a good picture’
Jamaican Teas Limited is grappling with a significant downturn in its US market sales, a critical revenue stream for the company. CEO John Mahfood identified a ‘triple threat’ of challenges impacting consumer spending among the Caribbean Diaspora: increased tariffs, heightened immigration enforcement, and the suspension of food stamp payments. These factors have collectively dampened sales in key states like New York and Florida.
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Pope Leo reels off four favourite films
In a surprising and heartfelt revelation, Pope Leo XIV has disclosed his four favorite films just days before a unique gathering with Hollywood luminaries and acclaimed directors at the Vatican. The first American pope, known for his deep connection to art and culture, selected a mix of timeless classics that resonate with themes of hope, family, and resilience. His choices include Frank Capra’s 1946 masterpiece ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ starring James Stewart, a poignant tale of an angel aiding a despairing family man. The pontiff also highlighted Robert Wise’s 1965 musical ‘The Sound of Music,’ Robert Redford’s 1980 family drama ‘Ordinary People,’ and Roberto Benigni’s 1997 Holocaust-inspired film ‘Life Is Beautiful,’ which portrays a father’s efforts to protect his son from the atrocities of a WWII concentration camp. The Vatican emphasized that these films hold profound personal significance for Pope Leo. The event, scheduled for Saturday at the Apostolic Palace, will feature stars such as Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, Viggo Mortensen, Dave Franco, and Monica Bellucci, alongside directors like Spike Lee, Judd Apatow, George Miller, and Giuseppe Tornatore. This initiative, part of the Catholic Church’s Holy Year celebrations, aims to foster dialogue between the Church and the cinematic world, exploring how artistic creativity can enhance the Church’s mission and promote universal human values.
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More health centres opened in St Elizabeth post Melissa
In a significant move to enhance healthcare accessibility, the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) has announced the reopening of multiple health centers across St Elizabeth, Jamaica. These facilities are now operational to provide essential primary care services to residents in the parish. The reopened centers include Junction, Portsea, Malvern, Santa Cruz, Pepper, Myersville, Lacovia, Balaclava, Maggotty (Holy Spirit Church), Elderslie (mobile unit), Southfield, Bellevue, Newell, Black River (tent), New Market (mobile unit), Gingerhill (medical outreach), and Middle Quarters. Operating hours are set from Monday to Thursday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and on Fridays from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. The SRHA has clarified that specific services will be available on designated days, ensuring a structured approach to healthcare delivery. This initiative aims to address the growing healthcare needs of the community, particularly in underserved areas, and marks a pivotal step in improving public health infrastructure in the region.
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NWA urges caution on St Elizabeth main road following mudslides
ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — The National Works Agency (NWA) has issued a stern warning to motorists and pedestrians traveling through the main road near Lacovia, Newton, and Vauxhall in St Elizabeth. The agency highlighted that persistent rainfall over recent days has caused significant damage to sections of the roadway, with mud and debris posing serious hazards. The Rice Piece community has been particularly affected, with the NWA emphasizing the increased risks for those navigating the area. Authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant while using these routes. The NWA is actively monitoring the situation and has pledged to address the issues promptly to ensure safety for all road users.
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TJH in $3.8-m storm toll talks
As Jamaica assesses the economic fallout from Hurricane Melissa, TransJamaican Highway Limited (TJH) has initiated discussions with the government to address the significant revenue loss incurred during a 15-day toll suspension. The suspension, mandated by Transport Minister Daryl Vaz as the hurricane approached, resulted in an estimated $3.8 million loss for TJH, based on its average daily revenue of $254,000. Despite this setback, TJH reported a 27% increase in third-quarter net profit, reaching $10.3 million, highlighting the financial impact of the temporary halt.
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InterEnergy to rebuild solar park
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the aftermath of the devastating Category Five Hurricane Melissa, InterEnergy Group has pledged to reconstruct the 52-megawatt (MW) Eight Rivers Solar Park in Westmoreland, which suffered extensive damage. The company has unveiled a detailed reconstruction strategy aimed at restoring the solar park’s energy generation capabilities, enhancing its resilience against future extreme weather events, and supporting Jamaica’s broader energy recovery efforts.
Rolando González Bunster, Chairman and CEO of InterEnergy Group, emphasized the company’s dedication to the people and communities it serves. ‘In Jamaica, we have seen remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. We are determined to support the nation’s recovery through tangible actions,’ he stated. ‘The reconstruction of the Eight Rivers Solar Park will prioritize strength, safety, and sustainability, reaffirming our commitment to Jamaica’s and the Caribbean’s energy future.’
Despite the hurricane’s destructive impact, InterEnergy’s thermal power plants—Doctor Bird I and II, West Kingston Power Partners (WKPP), and Jamaica Private Power Company (JPPC)—remain operational, supplying 250 MW of uninterrupted power to the national grid. Additionally, the company is assessing its wind farm in St Elizabeth, with plans to resume operations once safety conditions are met.
As part of its humanitarian response, InterEnergy has coordinated the arrival of the International Medical Relief (IMR) team to Jamaica. IMR, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing medical care and support to vulnerable populations globally, will offer critical assistance. The company has also cleared vital access roads in Westmoreland to facilitate the delivery of relief supplies, initiated a nationwide donation campaign, and prepared 4,000 care packages for distribution to the most affected communities in western Jamaica.
Dr. Wayne McKenzie, Country Manager of InterEnergy Jamaica, highlighted the broader mission of the recovery efforts. ‘Hurricane Melissa has left profound devastation, particularly in western Jamaica. Recovery is not just about restoring power but also restoring hope. Our teams are working tirelessly to clear access routes, organize relief logistics, and provide essential care packages to families in need. We remain steadfast in our commitment to helping Jamaica rebuild stronger,’ he said.
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Hurricane Melissa deals $40-b blow to mining sector
KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaican mining sector, a vital contributor to the nation’s foreign exchange earnings, has been severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa, with preliminary losses estimated at $40.25 billion. Agriculture and Mining Minister Floyd Green disclosed this staggering figure during a detailed address to the Houses of Parliament on Tuesday, highlighting the widespread devastation caused by the late-October Category 5 hurricane.
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‘It’s not enough!’
Members of Jamaica’s Parliament, particularly those representing areas affected by bauxite mining, have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the $400 million allocated to the Bauxite Community Development Programme (BCDP). During a recent House of Representatives session, they argued that the sum, drawn from the Capital Development Fund (CDF) managed by the Jamaica Bauxite Institute, is woefully inadequate to address the needs of mining communities. The funds, to be disbursed at $100 million annually from 2025 to 2028, amount to just $4-5 million per constituency each year, a figure MPs described as a mere drop in the bucket. The motion, though approved after a lengthy debate, faced sharp criticism from opposition members. Peter Bunting, MP for Manchester Southern, labeled the allocation an ’embarrassment,’ emphasizing that it falls far short of addressing the extensive damage caused by decades of mining. He highlighted the post-apocalyptic state of some communities, where abandoned open pits and environmental degradation persist. Dr. Kenneth Russell, MP for St Ann South East, echoed these concerns, citing poor relations between mining companies and residents, as well as the adverse effects of noise, dust, and unsafe roads. Damion Crawford, MP for St Catherine North Western, warned of the looming crisis as the bauxite industry nears the end of its productive lifespan, stressing the absence of a viable post-bauxite development plan. Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining Floyd Green acknowledged the challenges but defended the industry’s contributions to Jamaica’s development, citing the construction of towns, schools, and community centers funded by bauxite revenues. He pledged to address environmental concerns and ensure no new mining pits are left unrehabilitated.
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Oliver Samuels premières Di Prodigal Pickney in US
Renowned Jamaican theatre legend Oliver Samuels is set to bring his latest stage comedy, ‘Di Prodigal Pickney,’ to the United States, with performances doubling as fundraisers for hurricane relief efforts in Jamaica. The production, written, directed by, and starring Samuels, will tour the New York Tri-State Area over two weekends, beginning on November 14 in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and concluding on December 7 in Beltsville, Maryland. Additional performances will be held in Brooklyn, East Orange, Jamaica (Queens), Hartford, and the Bronx. The decision to allocate a portion of the proceeds to hurricane relief was made by producer Patrick M. Reid following the devastation caused by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, which struck western Jamaica on October 28, causing widespread damage and displacement. ‘Di Prodigal Pickney,’ inspired by the biblical parable of the Prodigal Son, follows the comedic misadventures of a Jamaican family navigating unexpected challenges. The cast includes acclaimed actress Karen Harriott and rising star Tesfa Edwards. The production has previously enjoyed successful runs in Canada, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, and the UK, earning rave reviews for its blend of humor and themes of forgiveness and redemption. Samuels, a veteran of over 60 theatrical productions, has also appeared in notable films such as ‘The Mighty Quinn’ and ‘Great Moments in Aviation.’ The fundraiser will benefit the Jamaica Organisation of New Jersey and the Westwood High School for Girls Alumnae Chapter, which is rebuilding a medical clinic damaged by the hurricane.