Senate President Milton E. Potter issued a formal statement Tuesday following Gov. Albert Bryan Jr.’s public announcement of a special legislative session to address proposed reforms. The session, which the governor said would focus on self-funded insurance, legislative pensions, and restrictions on candidacy for public employees, was announced without prior notice to the Legislature or submission of any supporting materials, according to Potter.
“It is disappointing that I first learned of this proposed special session through media reports,” Potter stated. “As the presiding officer of this body, it is not my intent to be pulled into a press-driven performance meant to distract from the real matters at hand.”
Potter said the Legislature had not received any draft legislation, supporting documentation, or formal communication from the administration. He described the governor’s remarks as “misleading,” “retaliatory,” and focused more on personal grievances than public policy.
“Let us be honest: this sudden push is a direct response to the Legislature rightfully repealing a $50,000 salary increase that the Governor quietly inserted into the FY2024 budget,” Potter stated. “Rather than accept that decision, the Governor has chosen to lash out, dressing up political spite as policy reform.”
Potter questioned whether key entities such as the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and the GESC Board had been consulted about transitioning to a self-funded insurance model. “Let me be unequivocal: while self-funding may sound fiscally attractive on paper, it becomes a dangerous and irresponsible gamble when applied to a government with cash flow instability, weak reserves, and limited administrative infrastructure,” he said in the statement.
He also addressed criticism from the governor regarding lawmakers receiving retirement pensions, calling the issue legally grounded and common in other jurisdictions. “If the Governor believes reform is warranted, let him submit a detailed proposal rather than resorting to name-calling and shaming individual senators from the podium,” the statement said.
On the matter of public employees running for office, Potter disputed claims that senators travel on government funds while campaigning. He also pointed to legislative history involving related bills introduced by former and current senators. “It has not advanced – not due to legislative apathy – but because of consistent resistance from members of our own party,” he said.
Potter concluded his statement by emphasizing that the Legislature remains committed to thoughtful, transparent governance. “The people of the Virgin Islands deserve principled policy, not political stunts,” he said. “If the Governor wishes to be taken seriously, let him act like a serious leader. Until then, this body remains committed to doing the people’s work responsibly, transparently, and without theatrics.”
A federal judge sentenced Miguel Marrero to a combined 30 years in prison Wednesday. Marrero pleaded guilty to two federal and two local charges after being arrested for shooting a mother and her teenage daughter during a fight at the Candido Guadalupe Terrace housing community on July 4, 2024. (Shutterstock image)
Miguel Marrero, who was arrested on July 4, 2024, for shooting a St. Croix woman and her then-15-year-old daughter at the Candido Guadalupe Terrace housing community, was sentenced Wednesday to serve a combined 30 years in prison.
Marrero pleaded guilty in February to federal charges of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence — which carries a minimum 10-year sentence — and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He also pleaded guilty to local charges of first- and third-degree assault. On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Wilma Lewis sentenced Marrero to serve consecutive terms of 15 and two-and-a-half years for the two federal counts, followed by 12-and-a-half and four years for the local counts. Marrero, 53, will serve the latter two terms concurrently.
The sentencing came after hours of arguments from Marrero’s attorney, Jason Gonzalez-Delgado, that the “totality of the circumstance” in Marrero’s case warranted a departure from federal sentencing guidelines. In a sentencing memorandum filed June 16, Gonzalez-Delgado asked the judge for a sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment in light of Marrero’s status as a single parent and what was described as years of bullying and abuse the victims leveled against Marrero’s son.
Gonzalez-Delgado claimed Wednesday that the bullying persisted over four years of beatings, intimidation and menacing text messages that necessitated multiple calls to the police, the housing community’s administration and the involved minors’ school administration. The shooting, he said, happened in a matter of two or three seconds.
“He tried to solve it. He couldn’t solve it. He blew a gasket,” Gonzalez-Delgado said.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry, representing the Justice Department, argued that nothing presented to the court “even remotely resembles” the extraordinary circumstances required to grant Marrero sentencing relief based on his status as a caregiver. Lewis agreed.
The parties spent far longer discussing the circumstances leading up to the shooting, which was seen widely in a video circulated on social media at the time. The video, which was played twice in court Wednesday, appeared to show Marrero’s son fighting the minor shooting victim — identified in court as J.O. — with Marrero’s encouragement. J.O.’s mother then confronted Marrero and slapped him twice before walking away, at which point Marrero pulled out a gun and shot her in the back before firing more shots at the fleeing group of minors. J.O. was shot in the ankle and the knee, and her mother received damage to her spine, colon, kidney and large intestine. She was treated at Juan F. Luis Hospital before being airlifted to a hospital in Miami. She remains in a wheelchair.
Marrero told the court that he encouraged his son, then 17, to fight one of the teenagers in an effort to back the rest off. He said he armed himself in case the rest entered the fight. Williams-Henry called it a “crazy, stupid thing” to do.
“That’s not an effort to prevent confrontation. That’s an effort to have a confrontation,” Lewis said after denying the motion for departure.
While acknowledging the history that led up to the shooting, Lewis said her “overwhelming reason” for denying the departure came from consideration of the events on July 4, 2024. She said the court was hard-pressed to find evidence that Marrero tried to avoid conflict, that he reasonably perceived himself to be in danger or that his response to being slapped was proportional and reasonable. Firing a gun at the first victim and the fleeing minors, she said, was “simply incomprehensible to this court.”
“If your actions are correct, then we live in the wild, wild west,” she said later.
The parking lot at the National Park Visitor’s Center joins in the spirit of the St. John Celebration by opening an annual Children’s Village, which for the past seven years, has been hosted by the Freshwater Church.
Freshwater Church hosts the St. John Celebration Children’s Village. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)
Pastor Wilson Wallace leads the 25-member congregation. He said the church got involved by volunteering alongside the St. John Rotary Club. Now, its members work together with students from Gifft Hill School performing community service.
Volunteers set up the hammer bell on opening night. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)
Volunteers from the island’s Board of Realtors helped set up games for the children to enjoy.
Pastor Wally — as he is known — calls Celebration season a great time to connect with St. John families who enjoy the games, the playground, and this year, a new feature — the dunk tank.
“They love it. They tell us how great it is, and it’s so encouraging for us. We love doing this … it’s for the families and children of St. John,” he said.
Gifft Hill schoolteacher Robin Wallace helps young visitor pick out a prize. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)
Over the years, St. Thomas and visiting off-island families have also stopped by to try their hand at basketball toss, race model cars on a sloping track and a game called Plinko. “Lots of kids come back over and over to earn more tokens … I recognize most of the kids from my school,” said volunteer Robin Wallace.
Over at the cotton candy stand, Vicki Schoedel scraped away a crust of pink and blue sugar crystals from the bottom. It was her first attempt at artfully spinning confection onto a paper cone. “This is my first time working the cotton candy machine this week,” she said. “It depends on the humidity; last night was a great night. Tonight it’s a bit more humid,” Schoedel said.
Vicki Schoedel spins sugar threads into cotton candy. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)
But children and adults kept appearing before her, ready to taste the results.
The hammer bell drew hopefuls large and small; the smaller contestants heaved away with a long-handled sledgehammer, but the puck barely moved from the lever that propelled it upward. Undeterred, the little ones shifted over to a child-sized hammer bell, which delivered a satisfying “ding” with less effort.
Then, with winning tickets in hand, they headed off to the trailer filled with toys and gifts that church members collect throughout the year.
Children’s Village welcomes fun lovers of all ages between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. nightly.
Miss Carenage 2017, Destini M. Petersen, and Allan Richardson, right, unveil the new Eiffel Tower at the entrance to Frenchtown as other local dignitaries look on during French Heritage Week celebrations that year. (Source file photo)
It’s that time of the year again! A weeklong celebration on St. Thomas of French heritage is around the corner, culminating with a Bastille Day party on July 14. If you’ve ever wondered about the celebrations and how long they have existed, keep in mind that they aren’t a new fete for the island. The French residents on St. Thomas, along with the wider St. Thomas community, have been celebrating Bastille Day and French heritage since the last century.
The Caribbean Genealogy Library, located on St. Thomas, put together a brief timeline using newspaper articles from the 1930s to 1990s. Here is what the old newspapers revealed about Bastille Day on St. Thomas!
A July 1935 article announced that Bastille Day was the cause of merriment in the French village of Carenage (today known as Frenchtown). The article continued that the French flag was displayed from numerous homes, and an informal reception was held by the French Consul.
A newspaper article from July 1946 stated that Bastille Day was celebrated in the French village with boat and canoe races, a softball game and a concert by the Community Band. A July 1951 article included similar activities for the Bastille Day celebrations, with the added note that the annual Bastille Day dance at Normandie Bar was moved to a new location. In some years, the news articles reported lots of music, a small parade with bands and tramping, plus boat racing in the harbor.
Newspaper reports from the 1970s mentioned that the celebrations were changing. A 1977 news article, for example, discussed a quieter, shorter Bastille Day celebration. The article included interviews with a few Frenchtown residents who suggested that the changes were due to the Americanization of the younger generation in the French community, while others interviewed noted that Bastille Day celebrations were now happening in Mafolie.
The Mafolie comment was likely directed at Sibs Mountain Bar. Newspaper articles from the 1970s reported on live music and dancing at Sibs in celebration of Bastille Day.
Fishing fun in the 2019 Bastille Day Kingfish Tournament. (Photo by Northside Sportfishing Club/Dean Barnes)
In recent decades, the Northside Sportfishing Club’s Annual Bastille Day Kingfish Tournament, which started in 1987, offered fishing, music, and dancing to celebrate Bastille Day.
In a July 1998 editorial, it is noted that French Heritage Week had been celebrated for the prior 10 years, suggesting an expansion from just Bastille Day on July 14 to including the whole week.
Frenchtown, St. Thomas, is a seafaring community. (Source file photo)
Newspaper articles from the 1990s to present include annual proclamations for French Heritage Week and Bastille Day by the governor of the territory. These proclamations offer an official recognition of the historical and cultural connection of Bastille Day to the French community, and of the contributions of the French community to the Virgin Islands.
Today, French Heritage Week continues to take place in July, just before Bastille Day. It is celebrated on St. Thomas with bands, dancing, receptions and fishing.
That’s almost 90 years of celebrating Bastille Day and the French community in St. Thomas in some way! Thank you to the organizers, past and present, and the community for supporting the events. Be sure to check out this year’s schedule of French Heritage Week events and join in the celebration.
Sources: The Virgin Islands Daily News (1930 – 1980 Collection, on Google News); the V.I. Source; and the Danish Royal Library (Pre-1917 Collection of Danish West Indies Newspapers)
Empress Matiposa sings original music at 2024 Emancipation Day program on St. Thomas. (Photo by Winx Flix Photography and Conch Shell Media, LLC)
The Emancipation Day Coalition invites the community to the annual Emancipation Day observance Thursday, at the Emancipation Garden on St. Thomas. A free community-organized event, scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. and end at 4 p.m., attendees can expect informative remarks, poetry, songs, live steelpan music, DJ music, Bamboula dancers and drummers, crafts, food on sale, and much more.
In light of the various current challenges facing the world, the community is invited to gather and encourage one another, as gatherings don’t occur regularly enough. The organizers ask not only that attendees watch and listen, but also to participate and engage directly with the program and other attendees, sharing whatever talent or message that relates to the program.
Held annually, the organizers have themed this year’s event around the concept of moving from the physical emancipation of 1848, encouraging attendance to foster ongoing cultural unity toward self-determination and mental emancipation.
“Our ancestors did their part in 1848 by abolishing chattel slavery. They passed the baton for us to continue the struggle, so we have to move from the state of national emancipation to National Liberation to self-determination,” said Leba OlaNiyi, event organizer.
For more information or to be included in the program, contact 340-998-1792.
The United Caribbean Association, Inc. will host the Island Legacy Luncheon in the Legendz Lounge courtyard on Market Street in downtown Frederiksted, this Sunday, 1 – 6 p.m. The community is invited to come dressed in tropical elegance.
The three-course luncheon fundraiser will kick off with appetizers, followed by a Caribbean-style buffet and dessert. Local drinks will accompany each course. The cuisine will feature vegan, vegetarian, salmon and chicken options. A jazz group will serenade during the appetizer course, with continuous music and entertainment offered throughout the buffet and dessert courses, continuing into the late afternoon and early evening.
UCA serving patrons. (Photo courtesy Sheniqua Roper)
UCA will provide the vegetarian and vegan options. Local chef/caterer and culinary arts teacher at St Croix Central High School, Camesha Lynch, will offer the salmon and chicken portions.
UCA serving up vegan options. (Photo courtesy Sheniqua Roper)
Event planner Sheniqua Roper works as a consultant with nonprofit organizations. “I coordinate fundraising events, manage community outreach, and support the execution of their program goals.”
Sheniqua Roper (Photo courtesy Sheniqua Roper)
Roper came on board with the United Caribbean Association when Hurricane Maria devastated a major part of the roof. The building, adjacent to Buddhoe Park and Fort Frederik, is one of the oldest structures in Frederiksted and serves as a restaurant with a daily menu of vegan food that provides healthy sustenance for the community.
Federal monies that were awarded to UCA did not cover the repair of the entire roof and other critical areas of the facility. Whenever it rains, the roof leaks and the restaurant must close for the day. Proceeds from the fundraiser luncheon will go toward rebuilding the damaged roof, Roper reported.
UCA Roof/shows outside damage. (Photo courtesy Sheniqua Roper)
Roper’s consultation with UCA granted her access to the following:
UCA High Level History – “The United Caribbean Association (UCA) was founded in 1969 by Mario Moorhead, a visionary rooted in community and culture. What began as a grassroots effort to connect Caribbean people through produce and trade evolved into one of the most culturally significant spaces on St. Croix.
“Originally known as Up Provision, the initiative linked farmers and artisans across the Caribbean. Moorhead sold goods from the back of his station wagon before transforming a former 1700s sugar warehouse, one of the oldest structures in Frederiksted, into UCA’s permanent home.
“The building was originally a sugar storage warehouse, constructed during the colonial era alongside Fort Frederik. In the late 1960s, Moorhead’s family purchased the building from VICO, the West India Sugar Factory (later VICORP and the Virgin Islands Corporation). By 1966, the last sugarcane crops had been harvested in the Virgin Islands, marking the end of an era. Moorhead preserved the space and repurposed it into a vibrant community hub and the last standing sugar warehouse of its kind on St. Croix.
“By the 1970s and 1980s, UCA became a hub for food, music, education and activism. Locals gathered to buy fresh fish, fruits and ital soup, while community bands like Liquid Sounds Brass and Soul Busters filled the air with music. Moorhead also organized the beloved Summer Fest, bringing legends like Calypso Rose and The Mighty Sparrow performing free of charge – and uniting Caribbean cultures from across the region.
“Beyond the arts, UCA became a center for Black empowerment and social consciousness. From grassroots organizing to nonviolent education, the space welcomed the influence of powerful figures such as Stokely Carmichael, later known as Kwame Ture, who was instrumental in the global Black Liberation movement and is widely known for popularizing the slogan ‘Black Power.’ UCA continued to champion unity, self-reliance, and the preservation of cultural identity throughout the Virgin Islands.
“One of UCA’s most historic contributions was rallying public support during the early 1970s to push for the official recognition of July 3 as Emancipation Day. working alongside the Melvin Evans Administration, as the first elected governor and a native son of St. Croix, UCA helped advocate for the passage of Act No. 3349, which Governor Evans signed into law on December 6, 1972, declaring July 3 a legal holiday commemorating the abolition of slavery in the former Danish West Indies in 1848.
“Today, UCA stands not only as a historical building, but as a living symbol of cultural pride, resilience, and legacy.”
Roper commented about her affiliation with UCA and her feelings of connectedness and commitment to her role as a consultant for the organization and the project. “It was a beautiful history lesson [UCA High Level History],” she said. “The Island Legacy Luncheon is more than a fundraiser. It’s a powerful reminder of what community looks like when we come together with purpose. UCA has been a pillar in Frederiksted for decades, and the event is about preserving that legacy while creating space for joy, culture, and reconnection. As we gather on Emancipation Day weekend, we’re not just raising funds, we’re uplifting stories, honoring our roots, and investing in the future of a place that has fed and nurtured so many.”
UCA inside view (Photo courtesy Sheniqua Roper)
UCA MISSION: “To advance, to educate, and heighten the participation of Blacks in the Caribbean in our business community and throughout the Caribbean through historical, cultural, enlightenment and intellectual exchange of ideas amongst its members through promotion of educational and cultural workshops, seminars, support and discussion groups and any and all such other activities of the benefits of the corporation.”
UCA members have worked for the advancement and preservation of the mission. Their lives reflect their commitment and it shows in their eagerness to share during the Source interview.
UCA Kitchen Manager and Community Advocate Valerie “Wala” Hendrickson openly declared, “In lieu of historic preservation, we would love for the community to support and help keep this history alive; don’t let it die. Little by little, the history of the Virgin Islands is being erased, and we can’t let this one go. All we need is a roof. Without it, the foundation will weaken, and the building will end up like so many other historic sugar mills that are now in ruins – like the ones in Richmond. This is the last standing sugarcane warehouse on St. Croix. We want the people to come out, support, and help keep this building alive. It is not just for us; it is to teach the young children the truth of where we come from.”
Valerie “Wala” Hendrickson working as UCA kitchen manager. (Photo courtesy Sheniqua Roper)
UCA Kitchen President Joseph “Feather” Bruce announced, “Open up our minds; form up ourselves – come together and form up our history, so our children could have a better future.”
UCA Ambassador Val Tucker-Rawlins proclaimed, “Let’s make the ancestors proud. They put so much work into this building. We stand on their shoulders. Let’s show up in unity and honor our history to the fullest.”
UCA Members: Joseph “Feather” Bruce, Valerie “ Wala” Hendrickson, Val Tucker-Rawlins (Photo courtesy Sheniqua Roper)
At the beginning of the luncheon, Hendrickson and Tucker-Rawlins will speak about UCA, its history and the fundraiser. After dessert, elders will be invited to speak; the floor will be open for dancing, mingling and networking.
UCA Island Legacy Luncheon: Three courses: Appetizers, Caribbean Buffet, Dessert Vegetarian, Vegan, Salmon and Chicken Options Local juices will be included with the courses.
Donations: Live Auction of artwork Raffle of Wire Art by Waldemar Brodhurst
Sponsorships: Island Supporter: $200 Culture Keeper: $300 Legacy Sponsor: $600
Ticket Options: General Admission: $35 Premium Seating: $45 Donation Ticket: Any amount if you do not attend
Tickets and Donations: Tickets can be purchased and donations can be made online at Eventbrite with Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay
Local Ticket Outlets:, Armstrong’s Ice Cream Eden’s Vegan Eatery Vegetarian Creation UCA Kitchen
Featured Entertainment: Soundmates, Tech Brass International, DJ Genius & Mr. Energy A Guest artist will be announced at the luncheon.
Thank You Legacy Sponsor Support: WTJX (PBS, NPR) and ib Designs
Satellite imagery of Hurricane Maria in 2017, which underwent rapid intensification. (Photo courtesy NASA)
Rapid intensification can make hurricanes more dangerous in a short period, leaving less time for preparation and response. For coastal and island communities like the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, early and accurate forecasts are critical when weather conditions allow a cyclone to strengthen quickly.
The Source contacted Alex DaSilva, lead hurricane expert at AccuWeather, to better understand what drives rapid intensification of cyclones and why it can pose such a serious risk to vulnerable areas.
Rapid Intensification of Cyclones Explained
“Rapid intensification occurs when a storm’s winds increase by at least 30 knots, or 35 mph, within a 24-hour period,” DaSilva said. “It requires prime atmospheric conditions and warm water temperatures. The water temperature needs to be at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit for tropical development.”
Rapid intensification of a hurricane occurs when a storm’s winds increase by at least 30 knots, or 35 mph, within a 24-hour period. (Photo courtesy ClimateCentral.org)
A key factor, DaSilva explained, is not just warm water at the surface but warm water extending hundreds of feet below. Meteorologists track this using a metric called “Ocean Heat Content.”
“Warm water temperatures at the surface and hundreds of feet below the surface are the primary driving function for rapid intensification,” DaSilva explained. “Meteorologists also look for the ‘Ocean Heat Content,’ which essentially is the depth of the warm water,” he added.
“Ocean Heat Content is very well correlated with an increasing chance of rapid intensification. In other words, the greater the Ocean Heat Content, the greater the chance you have of seeing rapid intensification.”
DaSilva identified several regions where Ocean Heat Content is especially high.
“The highest Ocean Heat Content is typically in the Gulf and in the western and central Caribbean,” he said. “There is also relatively high Ocean Heat Content off the southeast coast of the U.S. and even into the eastern Caribbean.”
He added that rapid intensification also depends on conducive atmospheric conditions and specifically a moist environment and minimal wind shear.
“For intensification to occur, you need an air mass that’s very moist, because storms can’t develop with dry air masses,” DaSilva noted. “Saharan dust coming from Africa can inhibit tropical development, and wind shear – which is the change in wind direction and wind speed at different heights in the atmosphere – is another big factor for rapid intensification.”
DaSilva offered a helpful analogy to explain how wind shear disrupts storm structure.
“Tropical systems can intensify when thunderstorms go straight up into the atmosphere, but wind shear can lean those thunderstorms over and even knock them over,” DaSilva explained. “I always like to think of this process as like a stack of pancakes. You want your stack of pancakes to stand nice and tall, but when there’s wind shear, it disrupts that stack of pancakes and can knock it over. When there is no wind shear and warm ocean waters, you have a prime environment for rapid intensification.”
A recent example of a storm that underwent explosive strengthening is Hurricane Erick, which formed in the eastern Pacific and made landfall along Mexico’s Pacific coast on June 19, 2025.
“Hurricane Erick in the Pacific went from a tropical storm to a Category 4 hurricane in about 24 hours, and that is an impressive case of rapid intensification,” DaSilva recognized.
Challenges with Forecasting Rapid Intensification
DaSilva acknowledged that even when all of the conditions are in place for rapid development to occur, it doesn’t always occur. It can be difficult for meteorologists to pinpoint exactly when — or if — a cyclone will suddenly strengthen.
“It’s important to make this point: just because you have all those ingredients does not guarantee that a storm will rapidly intensify. There are internal mechanisms with these tropical systems that can make it a little bit difficult to predict at times,” DaSilva admitted.
He noted that even with perfect atmospheric conditions, some storms fail to organize structurally, which is a key requirement for intensification.
“Sometimes you can have all the necessary atmospheric conditions needed for rapid intensification in place, but it just doesn’t happen. Many times, it just has to do with the fact that the storm can’t get the fundamental organization down. If that doesn’t happen, the storm won’t be able to intensify.”
Forecasting tools have improved significantly, but there are still limitations, especially when it comes to detecting rapid changes in intensity. Even with cutting-edge tools, experience and pattern recognition often make the difference.
“Most of the time, the forecast models are not that great at picking up on rapid intensification, and some models have been struggling with predicting rapid intensification,” DaSilva stated. “Forecasters are very good at predicting the track of a storm, and the science has evolved so much in the last 10 to 15 years. Forecasts predicting intensity have improved over the years, but not as much as our track forecasts.”
“Many times, it comes down to the intuition and experience of the meteorologists analyzing the data and models, using new tech and old-fashioned meteorology. It’s important to know the basics and pattern recognition. In some cases, old-school meteorology can outperform some of those newer models,” DaSilva shared.
Looking ahead, DaSilva said, while a perfect forecast may never be possible, experts are getting better at spotting favorable conditions in advance.
“I don’t think we’ll ever be able to predict with 100% certainty if and when rapid intensification will happen. What we can predict is when environmental conditions and factors are more or less conducive for rapid intensification. We’ve been getting much better at doing that over the last few years.”
Preparing for Rapid Intensification
DaSilva advised individuals to be as prepared as possible in the event that a storm rapidly intensifies. Given the unpredictability of such events, he recommends planning for a storm one category higher than what is currently forecast.
A diagram indicating the necessary factors for a cyclone to form and intensify. (Photo courtesy NOAA)
“I always tell people to prepare for at least one category higher than what the storm is currently forecast when it’s passing your area or expected to make landfall,” DaSilva advised. “If we’re forecasting a Category 1 hurricane, it’s best to prepare for at least a Category 2 storm. It’s always good to be extra-prepared, especially in this day and age where we’re seeing more cases of rapid intensification,” he continued.
“It’s always better to be overprepared than underprepared. You don’t want to be trapped or caught off guard last minute if a storm rapidly intensifies. So again, we’re urging everyone to follow the forecast very carefully,” DaSilva said.
Indeed, early preparation is critical, particularly as experts warn that some long-standing tools used to detect rapid intensification are being scaled back.
According to DailyClimate.org, NOAA and the Department of Defense are ending data collection from aging polar-orbiting satellites that have tracked hurricanes since the early 2000s. These weather satellites carry microwave sensors that help meteorologists “see” inside storms, especially at night, when hurricanes often strengthen over warm waters.
A report by The New York Times added that this type of microwave data is one of the most reliable ways to assess storm structure and intensity, especially when storms are far from land and out of range of aircraft. Losing or limiting access to these observations could lead to forecast delays or reduced accuracy during critical periods of storm development.
While some international satellites will continue to provide similar data, meteorologists say the gaps in coverage may leave forecasters with fewer early warning signs, increasing the importance of local readiness and public awareness.
Concerns for the 2025 Hurricane Season
DaSilva explained that meteorologists are closely monitoring conditions across both the Atlantic basin and the Eastern Pacific basin, where there is potential for storms to strengthen quickly.
“We are very concerned about more cases of rapid intensification in the Atlantic and the Pacific this year,” DaSilva said. “Cases of rapid intensification have been occurring more frequently, and I think there is a link to climate change, primarily due to rising ocean temperatures and higher Ocean Heat Content.”
So far this year, the Eastern Pacific basin has seen a much more active start to the hurricane season, with six named storms recorded as of Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Atlantic has remained relatively quiet, with only two short-lived cyclones developing. DaSilva noted that the activity in one basin does not necessarily predict what will happen in the other.
“We don’t believe there’s much of a correlation between the Atlantic and the Pacific. We’ve seen a very active start to the Pacific season, so that usually means the Atlantic will be quiet for the time being,” DaSilva said. “It’s very difficult to have both the Atlantic and Pacific basins extremely active at one time, and usually, it’s one or the other. Overall, the active start to the eastern Pacific season doesn’t really say a whole lot about whether we’re going to see a busy Atlantic season,” he added.
While some current conditions may reduce the chance of rapid intensification near the U.S. Virgin Islands, residents should remain watchful. DaSilva said recent ocean data offers some cautious optimism.
“There’s always a risk of rapid intensification every hurricane season, but I am feeling a bit better looking at the water data east of the islands,” DaSilva affirmed.
“The Ocean Heat Content east of the Lesser Antilles is actually a little below average for this time of the year because the Bermuda High has been stronger. The trade winds have also been stronger, which has mixed up some of the water,” said DaSilva. “We’ve also seen a lot of Saharan dust this year, which has filtered some of the sunlight and caused sea surface temperatures and Ocean Heat Content to be a little bit on the lower side. These factors can help prevent rapid intensification.”
Still, DaSilva warned that even with lower water temperatures, storms could form later in the season.
“It does not look like this is going to be a repeat of the 2017 season, when we saw two destructive Category 5 hurricanes impact the islands,” DaSilva said. “That said, I am concerned about the possibility of at least one or two impacts on the Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico this hurricane season. The pattern still supports at least a storm or two coming through that area,” he warned.
“However, the good news is that the water temperatures don’t look to be as warm as the last couple of years, which might be able to prevent rapid intensification. This doesn’t guarantee we won’t see it, but it does lower the risk.”
DaSilva encouraged residents to stay engaged with forecasts, especially as conditions may become more favorable for development west of the islands.
“It’s important for everyone in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico to follow forecasts very closely and not tune out, because storms can evolve and change quickly,” DaSilva said. “We expect the risk of rapid intensification to be focused west of the U.S. Virgin Islands this year, more toward the Gulf or western Caribbean, because the Ocean Heat Content and sea surface temperatures are higher in that area. That does not guarantee the U.S. Virgin Islands won’t face a rapidly intensifying storm. My concern is that we could see an active second half to the hurricane season.”
A Potentially Busy Second Half of Hurricane Season
AccuWeather has predicted a near-to-above-average Atlantic hurricane season this year. (Photo courtesy AccuWeather)
“We’re forecasting more named storms than the historical average,” he said. “The El Niño Southern Oscillation continues to be neutral, and it’s expected to be neutral throughout most of the hurricane season,” stated DaSilva. “However, it might turn toward La Niña late in the season. If that happens, we could see a busy end to the hurricane season, similar to what we saw last year with several storms during the month of November.”
Although November storms tend to form closer to the United States, DaSilva cautioned that the Caribbean is not immune.
“Luckily for the U.S. Virgin Islands, there typically aren’t many tropical threats for the eastern Caribbean region during the month of November,” he said. “They’re usually closer to the United States. But we have seen storms in the eastern Caribbean during November, so we still need to keep a close eye out for that.”
Finally, DaSilva highlighted another factor that could shape the latter part of the season: water temperatures near the coast of Africa.
“We’ll be keeping a very close eye on the water temperatures off the coast of western Africa,” he said. “When the waters are cooler in that area, that can suppress Atlantic tropical development in the Main Development Region. When those temperatures are warmer, it can enhance development. Right now, those waters are cool, and that’s why we really haven’t seen too much action way out in the Atlantic. That could change later in the season. Waters in this region have the potential to warm up in the coming weeks and months,” DaSilva concluded.
Weather Forecast Information
As of Tuesday afternoon, the NHC is monitoring several disturbances across both the Atlantic Basin and Eastern Pacific Basin. At this time, no cyclones are expected to form near the USVI or Puerto Rico. However, a tropical wave is forecast to pass through the Caribbean later this week. USVI visitors and residents are encouraged to prepare for hurricanes now, before any cyclones are on the horizon.
Helenites lived up to their mantra, “Any pressure? No pressure,” in a gritty 1-0 victory over Rovers SC at Bethlehem Soccer Complex. (Photo courtesy Lance P. Chardon II, USVISF)
Rock City United made a commanding entrance into the USVI Women’s Premier League this past Sunday, leading a full day of competitive matchups that also saw New Vibes SC battle LRVI FC on St. Thomas and Helenites SC face off against longtime rivals Rovers SC on St. Croix.
Rock City United Makes Explosive First Showing in USVI Women’s Premier League
After a last-minute scheduling shift, Rock City United wasted no time making their presence known in the Women’s Premier League this past Sunday. The all-female St. Thomas club stepped up to face Castaways SC in a statement match that ended in a dominant 6-0 victory for Rock City United.
The scoring opened early and fast, with Kathryn Turner finding the back of the net in just the 6th minute. Two minutes later, Lily McMenamin added another, setting the tone for a relentless first half. Captain Magen Freeman secured the third goal in the 15th minute, and Veronica Williamson continued the offensive streak with a fourth in the 21st.
By halftime, Rock City United was already in full control. Katie Schwann added a fifth goal in the 37th minute, followed by a sixth from Turner just one minute later — bookending the match with goals that showcased the team’s cohesion and firepower. Goalkeeper Tressa Aughburns secured a clean sheet and sealed the shutout to continue the team’s undefeated season.
This was more than just a win — it was an introduction. As a club fully dedicated to the development and elevation of female athletes in the USVI, Rock City United understood the pressure to perform and rose to the occasion.
New Vibes SC Outscores LRVI FC in Physical Men’s Matchup
Following the women’s showdown, the action continued on St. Thomas as New Vibes SC took on LRVI FC in a hard-fought men’s match. Unfortunately for LRVI, both their men’s and women’s teams walked away winless on Sunday after New Vibes SC claimed a 4-2 victory.
Naqwan Henry got New Vibes on the board early, scoring in the 14th minute to set the tone. Tensions ran high throughout the first half, with both teams picking up three yellow cards each. Henry and his teammate Jordan Atemazem were both cautioned, while LRVI’s Richard Lavorato and captain Axel Bartsch also found themselves in the referee’s book.
Bartsch quickly followed up his booking with a goal in the 43rd minute, leveling the match 1-1 before the halftime whistle.
Momentum shifted in the second half, and New Vibes took full advantage. Leonardo Regala and Senat Kenson struck back-to-back goals that gave New Vibes a 3-1 edge and left LRVI scrambling. A flurry of substitutions between the 75th and 85th minutes ended with New Vibes’ Anthony Bassaragh scoring in the 86th, widening the gap to 4-1. Skyler Hackett managed to claw one back for LRVI a few minutes later, but the damage was done. The match ended 4-2 in favor of New Vibes.
It was a tough day on the pitch for LRVI but an exciting show of depth and strength from New Vibes SC.
Helenites Edge Out Rovers in St. Croix Rivalry Match
Meanwhile, St. Croix fans witnessed a gritty showdown between two of the league’s top contenders — Rovers SC and Helenites SC. With last season’s dominance still fresh in Rovers’ reputation, this was one of the most anticipated matchups of the Premier League, and it did not disappoint.
Both teams came out aggressively, racking up three yellow cards each in the first half as the intensity boiled over. Helenites’ McKean St. Croix finally broke through, scoring the lone goal of the match in the 42nd minute. That strike proved to be the difference-maker, giving Helenites a narrow 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
Rovers’ defense doubled down in the second half, refusing to concede another goal, and Helenites’ back line matched their energy. In the end, no second-half goals were scored, and the early effort by St. Croix stood as the match-winner.
Helenites’ statement victory has doubtless fueled this fiery rivalry as both teams and their fans eagerly anticipate their next matchup, scheduled for August.
A 34-year-old woman was arrested Tuesday in connection with a May assault at Magens Bay beach that left a security guard injured, according to the V.I. Police Department.
Nadelle James surrendered to police around 6:24 p.m. at the Richard Callwood Command and was charged with third-degree assault, simple assault, and disturbance of the peace. Bail was set at $25,000, according to the police report.
The arrest stems from an incident on Saturday, May 24, during the Slider Showdown event at Magens Bay. A male security guard told officers he was attempting to break up a fight involving several women when he was struck in the nose by a bottle thrown by a woman. The injury required sutures, police said.
James was identified as the suspect during the investigation led by the Criminal Investigation Bureau.
Anyone with information about the case is urged to call the VIPD Criminal Investigation Bureau at 340-774-2211, contact the 911 Emergency Call Center, or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers USVI at 800-222-TIPS (8477). Police said all tips are confidential.
The Department of Public Works is informing the community of a traffic light outage at the intersection of Veterans Drive and Edward Wilmot Blyden Blvd – adjacent to the Lucinda Millin Home.
The traffic light is currently offline but repairs are scheduled for Thursday, July 3. Motorists are asked to traverse the area with extreme caution and utilize the rules of a four-way stop, which goes into effect when traffic lights at an intersection are inoperable. In a four-way stop, all drivers must stop at the intersection, then proceed in the order they arrived.
The Department of Public Works appreciates the community’s patience as they work to improve road conditions throughout the territory.
