Local News
Tropical Storm Lee Approaching Leeward Islands with Potential to Become a Major Hurricane
Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services issued a Tropical Cyclone Alert for Antigua and Barbuda, the rest of the Leeward Islands, and the British Virgin Islands as Tropical Storm Lee approaches the region. At 5:25 AM ECT on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, Lee was reported to be approaching hurricane strength and is expected to rapidly intensify into an extremely dangerous hurricane by the weekend.
While the forecast track of Lee remains uncertain due to its notable distance away from the islands, most forecast models suggest that the center will likely pass a relatively safe distance north of the northern Leeward Islands. However, there is still a possibility that a tropical storm or hurricane watch may be issued sometime Thursday.
In the worst-case scenario, Lee poses a minor threat to the islands, with the potential to cause limited impacts from storm-force winds and high seas, resulting in minor disruptions to daily life. It is important to note that this assessment is subject to change as the system moves closer to the area and new information becomes available. To ensure safety, residents are strongly advised to have their hurricane disaster plans prepared and ready to implement at short notice. They are also urged to stay actively vigilant and monitor the progress of the cyclone closely.
As of 5 AM, the center of Tropical Storm Lee was located near latitude 13.7 North and longitude 44.6 West, approximately 1260 miles east-southeast of the Leeward Islands and 1460 miles east-southeast of the British Virgin Islands. The storm is moving west-northwest at a speed of 14 mph, with a slight reduction in forward speed expected in the next few days.
Maximum sustained winds have increased to around 65 mph with higher gusts. Continued steady to rapid strengthening is forecasted, and Lee is expected to become a hurricane later today and a major hurricane in a couple of days. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 80 miles from the center, and the estimated minimum central pressure is 997 mb.
On its forecast track, Tropical Storm Lee could be near the islands late Friday or Saturday as a major tropical cyclone. Hazardous seas are likely to impact the islands, and there is a possibility of minimal storm-force winds. However, the specific impacts, if any, remain uncertain due to the limited confidence in the eventual path, size, and intensity of the system.
At this time, there are no watches or warnings in effect. Residents are advised to closely monitor Tropical Storm Lee and ensure that they have their hurricane season plans prepared. The next update will be issued shortly after 11 AM by Forecaster Bernell Simon.
Business
BVI Financial Investigation Agency and Jersey Financial Services Commission Sign Agreement to Strengthen Cooperation in Tackling Financial Crimes
The Financial Investigation Agency (FIA) of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) has recently strengthened ties with the Jersey Financial Services Commission (JFSC) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on 25 October. The agreement formalises a cooperative framework for consultation and information-sharing between the two regulatory bodies, enhancing their oversight in financial regulation.
The MoU signals a shared commitment by the BVI and Jersey to uphold rigorous financial standards and combat financial crimes. By sharing essential intelligence, the FIA and JFSC aim to bolster efforts to detect, prevent, and investigate crimes such as money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing.
Errol George, Director of the FIA BVI, expressed the importance of the partnership, stating, “The signing of this MoU establishes a framework for information exchange between the FIA BVI and JFSC, supporting compliance with the laws, regulations, and rules relating to the functions of our Authorities. I am indeed pleased with the progress we are making in the Territory to tackle financial crime.”
Through this agreement, both agencies will, upon request, provide critical information that strengthens regulatory practices across the Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBP) sector. Shared data will include details on corporate structures, management standards, and organisational quality, all essential for effective supervision.
Business
Virgin Islands Secures $100 Million Loan to Drive Infrastructure and Community Development
Local News
Third District Job Fair Sees Record-Breaking Turnout and Community Impact
-
Business1 week ago
FirstBank Customers Accounts Show Zero or Negative Balances Electronically
-
Local News1 week ago
Premier Sacks Deputy in Major Cabinet Shake-Up, Appoints Julian Fraser
-
Local News1 week ago
Dismissed Deputy Premier Lorna Smith Notified of Removal via Letter from Premier
-
Local News1 week ago
Julian Willock Refutes Defamatory Allegations in Guavaberry Media Report
-
Local News1 week ago
Premier Wheatley’s Allegations of Insufficient COI Support Lack Merit: Says Smith
-
Local News2 weeks ago
BVI Cancer Society Donates Cutting-Edge MRI Equipment in Memory of Kirima Shameka Forbes
-
Education2 weeks ago
Winners Recognised in Territory’s Anti-Bullying Speech Competition
-
Local News3 days ago
Third District Job Fair Sees Record-Breaking Turnout and Community Impact