TROPICAL STORM WARNING FOR BVI AS POTENTIAL CYCLONE APPROACHES

The Territory is bracing for potential tropical storm conditions as Potential Tropical Cyclone Five approaches the region. The National Hurricane Center issued a Tropical Storm Warning for the territory Monday, indicating tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours. Forecasters predict tropical storm-force winds could impact the area as early as Tuesday evening and continue … Continued

TROPICAL DISTURBANCE THREATENS LEEWARD ISLANDS, TROPICAL STORM WATCH ISSUED

A rapidly moving tropical disturbance in the Atlantic Ocean is causing concern for several Caribbean islands, prompting meteorologists to issue a Tropical Storm Watch for multiple locations.  The National Hurricane Center expects the disturbance to develop into a tropical depression tonight, potentially strengthening into a tropical storm as it approaches the Leeward Islands. Current maximum … Continued

DDM HQ CONSTRUCTION LAGS, PREMIER CONCERNED

The territory’s efforts to bolster its disaster preparedness face a setback as construction of a new Department of Disaster Management (DDM) headquarters stalls, Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley revealed recently. Speaking at a press briefing, Wheatley expressed frustration with the project’s slow progress.  Wheatley hinted at tensions between project management and contractors but assured reporters that … Continued

CULTURAL LANDMARK RAZED, FUTURE PLANS UNCERTAIN

Demolition crews began work last week on the Sir Rupert Briercliffe Hall, a once-prominent cultural centre that has stood abandoned for nearly a decade. The structure, funded by its British namesake philanthropist in the 1980s, had fallen into disrepair, becoming an eyesore in the heart of Road Town. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley, addressing reporters last … Continued

PREMIER TO CHAIR CRUCIAL OECS ENVIRONMENTAL SUMMIT THIS WEEK

The Government of the Virgin Islands will host the Eleventh Council of Ministers: Environmental Sustainability (COM:ES 11) of the Organisation  of Eastern Caribbean States from July 24-25, focusing on the theme “From Aspiration to Focused Action.” As shared by Premier Hon. Dr Natalio Wheatley, the annual conference brings together environment and sustainability ministers from the … Continued

SAHARAN DUST CONTINUES TO RESTRICT TROPICAL DEVELOPMENT

The Virgin Islands Department of Disaster Management reports that Saharan dust continues to inhibit tropical system formation in the Atlantic basin, marking nearly two weeks of suppressed activity. The dust, now at peak concentration, has created unfavourable conditions for tropical development. Tropical waves emerging from the African coast struggle against the associated dry air. Experts … Continued

PREMIER: SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDS COMING FOR BVI FESTIVAL

As the territory prepares for the 70th Emancipation Festival, questions about fiscal transparency and event management continue to surround this significant cultural celebration. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley announced that a supplemental budget is being processed for the 70th Emancipation Festival, less than two weeks before the official opening of the festival village. Speaking at a … Continued