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.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut
