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.
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British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission Welcomes New Leadership
The British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVIFSC) has announced new appointments to its governing board, with Mr. Gerard St Clair Farara KC stepping in as Chairman and Ms. Patlian Johnson as Commissioner. The appointments, confirmed by the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, mark a new chapter for the commission as it seeks to strengthen the territory’s financial services sector.
Mr. Gerard St Clair Farara KC has been appointed to a three-year term as Chairman, effective August 1, 2024. A seasoned legal expert with a distinguished career, Farara currently serves as a Commercial Court Judge for the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and leads the litigation team at the BVI office of COLLAS CRILL, formerly Farara Kerins. Farara’s prominence in the legal community is further highlighted by his appointment as Queen’s Counsel in 1996, cementing his standing as a leading figure in the Virgin Islands Bar and the broader Eastern Caribbean.
Ms. Patlian Johnson will serve a one-year term as Commissioner, also beginning on August 1, 2024. Johnson, a Strategy and Policy Advisor with extensive experience, currently holds the position of National Coordinator for the UNDP Project Office. She brings an impressive academic background, including a Master of Science in Economics and Finance from the University of Bristol and a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Accounting with First Class Honours from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus.
The pair will replace outgoing Chairman Mr. Robin F. Gaul and Commissioner Mr. Melvin A. Turnbull, whose terms have concluded. Minister of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE (AL), praised the new appointments, stating, “I am delighted to welcome Mr. Farara and Ms. Johnson to the BVIFSC Board of Commissioners. Their combined expertise will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities facing the financial services sector.”
Smith also expressed gratitude to the departing board members for their significant contributions to the growth and stability of the territory’s financial services industry. According to the Government Information Service (GIS), these appointments underscore the Virgin Islands’ commitment to maintaining a well-regulated and competitive financial services sector.
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