Local News
Forecasters Warn of Above-Average Storm Activity for 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season
Forecasters at the Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project are cautioning that the region is likely to experience elevated levels of storm activity during the upcoming 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season, scheduled to commence on June 1.
Senior Research Scientist Dr. Phil Klotzbach, speaking at the Tropical Weather Conference, conveyed that the Atlantic basin is anticipated to witness 23 named storms throughout the season. Of these, eleven hurricanes are forecasted to form, with five potentially escalating into major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher.
Dr. Klotzbach attributed this forecast to higher-than-average sea temperatures, which provide conducive heat energy for storm development. Additionally, a shift towards La Nina conditions later in the year is anticipated, resulting in minimal vertical wind shear to impede the organization and strengthening of storm systems.
Jasen Penn, Director of Disaster Management, emphasized the importance of early preparation in response to this forecast, noting that while conditions may evolve, residents should take proactive measures to brace for seasonal storms.
“The reality is that regardless of the forecast, it remains important for persons to take steps to prepare because just one storm coming to our area can be devastating,” remarked Mr. Penn.
Highlighting the heightened risk, forecasters project a 66% probability of a major hurricane tracking through the Caribbean Sea, compared to the average yearly probability of 47%.
Mr. Penn urged residents to heed precautionary measures, emphasizing the adage, “It is better to prepare and prevent than to repair and repent.”
As the hurricane season approaches, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant by monitoring local weather reports shared through the DDM website and social media channels. Additional preparatory measures include downloading the DDM App, creating or updating emergency plans, inspecting property for vulnerabilities, assembling essential supplies, and reviewing insurance policies.
Residents can access further resources to aid in preparation, including a hurricane tracking map, an emergency kit checklist, and the latest list of emergency shelters, available at www.bviddm.com.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is actively searching for three suspects who fled after an attempted home invasion in Cocodella on Monday afternoon.
Officers responded to a report of the incident shortly after 3 p.m. today, December 2. Upon arrival, they encountered four armed individuals. Shots were exchanged during the confrontation, resulting in the arrest of one suspect. The individual is currently in custody at the Road Town Police Station and is assisting with investigations.
The remaining suspects escaped on foot, with one believed to have sustained injuries during the encounter. Despite extensive searches, they have not been located.
The RVIPF has launched a full investigation and is appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477 (TIPS) or from overseas at (284) 800-8477. Information can also be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
All tips will be treated with strict confidentiality as authorities work to bring the suspects to justice.
A South African national was charged with manslaughter following a tragic marine collision that claimed the life of 39-year-old Stephen Cross Jr.
Lesley Joubert, 36, was taken into custody by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) as part of their investigation into the incident. He appeared before the Magistrate’s Court and was granted bail set at $120,000 in cash. Joubert is expected to return to court on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.
The tragic event occurred on the evening of Friday, 22 November, near Saba Rock. Initial reports indicate that a 21-foot rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) collided with a dinghy, causing severe injuries to Mr. Cross, a resident of St. Thomas, USVI.
Cross was rushed to the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic before being transferred to the Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for advanced treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.
As investigations continue, the authorities have urged members of the public with any information relevant to the case to come forward.
The RVIPF assured the public that comprehensive investigations are underway to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
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