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Above-Average Temperatures Expected This Week With Passing Showers and Moderate Rip Current Risks

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Above-Average Temperatures Expected This Week With Passing Showers and Moderate Rip Current Risks

The U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are set for a week of above-average temperatures and intermittent showers, as well as a moderate rip current risk affecting marine conditions, according to the National Weather Service in San Juan.

Heat and Weather Overview

As the month of May begins and the summer months approach, meteorologists at the NWS explained that hot and humid temperatures will be exacerbated by the potential for high heat indexes. Afternoon high temperatures across the USVI are expected to reach the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit, with humid conditions making it feel even hotter.

Sunshine peeks through the fronds of a palm tree in Christiansted on St. Croix during warm weather conditions on Tuesday. (Source photo by Jesse Daley)

“Above-normal temperatures will persist, promoting elevated heat indexes across urban and coastal areas,” the NWS stated in an update on Tuesday.

According to the NWS, “The heat index, also known as the apparent temperature, is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature.”

Forecasters said that the warm weather pattern is driven in part by a southeasterly wind flow. While winds are expected to shift to a more easterly direction by early next week, the risk of excessive heat will remain.

“A limited heat risk is also forecast for most of the period, affecting sensitive individuals and individuals with prolonged exposure and/or inadequate hydration. Current computer forecast model guidance suggests a more easterly steering flow to start the next week, veering to become more easterly to east-southeasterly to start the next workweek and continuing to bring patches of both drier and more humid air,” advised the NWS.

Heat and rip current risks are expected across the region during the workweek according to the National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico. (Photo courtesy NWS, San Juan, Puerto Rico)

Individuals across the region are encouraged to monitor their hydration, limit strenuous activity during peak afternoon heat, and check on vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and pets.

Isolated Showers are Possible

Although sunshine is expected to dominate, isolated showers and brief thunderstorms are possible, and gusty winds will occur at times.

“Mostly fair weather will prevail during the forecast period, with passing trade wind moisture bringing isolated showers, mainly during overnight and morning hours,” the NWS said.

Saharan Dust May Reach the Region

NWS meteorologists also noted that minor amounts of Saharan dust may be present in the coming days, although the majority of the desert sand should remain south of the region.

“Low concentrations of Saharan Dust will reach the area while the bulk of a Saharan Air Layer will stay south of the local islands,” the NWS said. “Under breezy conditions, increasing temperatures and with patches of drier air approaching, the potential for elevated fire danger remains,” the NWS continued.

Saharan dust can also aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. Residents and visitors with sensitivities are advised to monitor air quality and limit prolonged outdoor activity, particularly when dust concentrations are high.

Marine Conditions and Rip Currents

The NWS explained that winds and long-period northeasterly swells are anticipated to generate some choppy seas. While the overall risks of hazardous marine conditions may remain relatively limited, a moderate risk of rip currents is expected across portions of Puerto Rico and the USVI.

“Moderate rip current risk will continue along northern and eastern exposed beaches through Thursday, improve to low risk on Friday, and then return to moderate by the weekend as winds increase,” the NWS stated.

Small craft operators should exercise caution, and swimmers are urged to remain vigilant. Detailed rip current safety tips can be found on the official website of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Looking Ahead to Hurricane Season

As the region approaches the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season, the National Hurricane Center will resume daily tropical outlook posts starting May 15. The official start of hurricane season is June 1, and NOAA plans to release its official hurricane season forecast on May 21.

The National Hurricane Center will begin issuing daily Tropical Weather Outlooks on May 15, ahead of the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season, which begins June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. (Photo courtesy NOAA)

As reported previously by the Source, forecasters at Colorado State University and AccuWeather predict a season that could be below average. This is largely due to a potentially strong El Niño weather pattern currently developing in the Pacific. When an El Niño phase occurs, wind shear can increase across the Atlantic basin, helping to disrupt tropical cyclone development.

NOAA encourages residents to take action now and prepare before the official start of hurricane season, including reviewing risks, understanding alerts, and making plans before a storm develops. (Photo courtesy NOAA)

However, even with a forecast for fewer storms, residents are encouraged to remain prepared and informed, as it only takes one storm to cause significant destruction.

Daily Weather Forecasts

Information regarding the weather across the USVI, including marine forecasts, is available from the NWS and NOAA. With the Atlantic hurricane season set to begin June 1, individuals across the islands are also encouraged to begin preparing for hurricane season.

The local forecast is regularly updated on the Source Weather Page, and a weekly video forecast is available. Additionally, residents and visitors can view weather alerts and disaster preparedness information from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency

Dozens of Bauxite Suits Settled, Dozens More Await Trial

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Dozens of Bauxite Suits Settled, Dozens More Await Trial
The long-running St. Croix bauxite-exposure suit has been settled. (Photo courtesy Today)

One-time St. Croix aluminum manufacturers and about 80 of their former employees reached a formal settlement Tuesday, according to court records, just as the long-awaited trial for alleged exposure to carcinogenic industrial dust was to begin. Details of the settlement have not been revealed but roughly 85 more bauxite and asbestos suits remain open against former Virgin Islands aluminum refiners.

Attorneys for Lockheed Martin, the defense and aerospace giant that now owns companies that processed bauxite for aluminum manufacturing for decades in St. Croix, and attorneys for former maintenance worker Milton Burt filed papers in Superior Court Monday indicating they were approaching a settlement. Judge Alphonso Andrews Jr. released the jury that afternoon.

Some of the cases settled were first filed in 2007, although most were brought between 2020 and 2022. Similar suits go back even further. Many of the original claimants died, with the suits carried on by family members.

St. Croix-based attorneys for Lockheed did not immediately reply to messages seeking comment. Attorneys for Burt and other plaintiffs confirmed a settlement had been reached but declined to comment further.

Employees of aluminum manufacturer Martin Marietta, which later became Lockheed Martin, claimed the company failed to equip or properly warn them of exposure to bauxite dust and other cancer-causing lung irritants. Burt was a maintenance worker at the plant for 26 years, according to a lawsuit he filed in 2021, who had little or no protection from bauxite dust, asbestos and more.

Burt and others developed pneumoconiosis — respiratory ailments sometimes called black lung, according to court records. Still pending before the Superior Court are other allegations of lung scarring from exposure to bauxite dust and asbestos.

Anthony Allick and Martin Matthew, also suffering from pneumoconiosis, sued their former employers, now called Glencore, in 2021 with claims similar to Burt’s: Lax industrial oversight led to otherwise preventable illness. Attorneys for the men hoped for November or January jury trials. More than 80 others have filed similar suits.

Man Arrested After Alleged Assault on Officer at St. Croix Bank

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Man Arrested After Alleged Assault on Officer at St. Croix Bank

A St. Croix man was arrested Monday after police said he struck an officer with a metal crutch at a local bank, according to the Virgin Islands Police Department.

The incident occurred about 4 p.m. Monday, when the 911 Emergency Call Center dispatched officers to Oriental Bank at Estate Diamond for a report of a disturbance.

According to the release, the responding officer ordered Warren Freeman to leave the premises, but he refused. Police said that while the officer was speaking with another individual, Freeman rose from his wheelchair and struck the officer with a metal hand crutch, causing an open laceration to the officer’s face.

Freeman was arrested and transported to the Wilbur Francis Command, where he was processed and refused to be booked, police said.

He was charged with assault third, aggravated assault and battery, disturbance of the peace, and interfering with an officer discharging his duties. Bail was set at $25,000.

Unable to post bail, Freeman was remanded to the John Bell Adult Correctional Facility pending his advice of rights hearing, according to the press release.

Man Arrested in St. Croix After Unauthorized Entry and Assault

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Man Arrested in St. Croix After Unauthorized Entry and Assault

A St. Croix man was arrested Tuesday in connection with an incident involving unauthorized entry and an assault that was reported earlier this year, according to the Virgin Islands Police Department.

Police said the case began on Jan. 7, 2026, at about 5:47 p.m., when a complainant reported to the Ancilmo Marshall Command Police Station that a male had entered her home and assaulted a male acquaintance inside.

An investigation identified Lionel Benjamin as the suspect. Police said he entered the complainant’s apartment without authorization and became involved in a physical altercation with the male inside.

On Monday, Benjamin was apprehended and arrested on charges of burglary first, simple assault and battery, and disturbing the peace, according to the VIPD. Bail was set at $75,000.

He was booked and transported to the John Bell Adult Correction Facility pending his advice of rights hearing.

Breeze Airways to Offer Flights Between St. Thomas, Tampa

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Breeze Airways to Offer Flights Between St. Thomas, Tampa
Travelers wait in long lines on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas as a partial government shutdown continues to affect workers with the Transportation Safety Administration. (Source photo by Siân Cobb)
Breeze Airways announced twice-weekly flights between Tampa, Fla. and St. Thomas starting on Dec. 16. (Source photo by Siân Cobb)

Low-cost airline Breeze Airways will begin twice-weekly nonstop flights between Tampa and St. Thomas starting Dec. 16.

Tampa International Airport announced the new routes in a press release Tuesday and said the flights will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The airline is also launching nonstop flights between Tampa and Cancun, Mexico, on Dec. 19. Tampa airport chief executive Michael Stephens called the new routes “milestones” for the airport.

“Both destinations are in high demand among Tampa Bay travelers, and the timing couldn’t be better as we look ahead to this year’s busy holiday travel season,” he stated. “We can’t wait to celebrate the launch of these routes in December.”

The new routes were announced just days after Spirit Airlines shuttered all operations, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and reducing overall airlift for Virgin Islanders. Prior to shutting down, Spirit operated routes connecting St. Thomas to Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, the latter of which also connected to St. Croix.

With its new routes to St. Thomas and Cancun, Breeze will offer service to 37 destinations from Tampa. Flights will depart Tampa at 2:39 p.m. and arrive in St. Thomas at 5:39 p.m., then depart the territory at 6:39 p.m. and arrive back in Tampa at 10:09 p.m. The airline was cofounded in 2017 by Brazilian-American businessman David Gary Neeleman, who expressed confidence that Tampa travelers “will love these destinations.”

A V.I. Port Authority spokesperson could not be reached for additional comment on Tuesday evening.

Public Works Announces Project Completions and Ongoing Infrastructure Improvements Territory-Wide

Mat Probasco
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Public Works Announces Project Completions and Ongoing Infrastructure Improvements Territory-Wide

The Virgin Islands Department of Public Works today announced the completion of several key infrastructure projects, along with continued progress on roadway improvements territory-wide. 

Public Works Derek Gabriel. (Screenshot from Facebook live stream)

These efforts reflect ongoing investments in the territory’s transportation network through a combination of local and federal funding sources.

“These are not just projects—we are delivering long-overdue infrastructure improvements that our communities have been waiting on for years,” said Albert Bryan Jr. “We have secured the funding, we have worked through the challenges, and now we are executing. Every road we pave and every repair we complete, is about improving daily life for our residents and ensuring our infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of this territory. We are moving forward, and we are not slowing down.”

St. Thomas / St. John District

On St. Thomas, DPW contractors recently completed roadway rehabilitation along Irvin “Brownie” Brown Drive in Savan, as well as critical segments of Estate Bolongo and Valdemar A. Hill Sr. Drive (Skyline). These roadways serve as essential connectors for residents, businesses, and emergency services, and their improvement enhances safety, drivability, and overall accessibility.

DPW contractors recently commenced paving operations along segments of Frydendahl Drive near Coki Point, continuing the Department’s phased roadway improvement efforts in high-traffic corridors.

Looking ahead, paving is scheduled to begin in several areas of Bovoni, including segments of Benburin “Benny” Stephens Drive, Bovoni Hill, and Nadir Terrace (Lima Road). These long-awaited repairs are scheduled to begin on Wednesday, April 6, 2026, and continue through Friday, April 13, 2026, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The work will deliver meaningful improvements to a community that has experienced significant roadway challenges and remains a priority for the Department.

“Recognizing this is a high-traffic area, we are asking motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution when traveling through the area,” said DPW Commissioner Derek Gabriel. “Residents should also expect temporary impacts to on-street parking and property access during construction.”

On St. John, DPW contractors completed repairs to the Wharf Bypass and segments of Fish Fry Drive in April, improving access and traffic flow in a key area for both residents and visitors. The Department is also finalizing additional paving task orders for other segments of Cruz Bay and Coral Bay, with work scheduled for completion this summer.

St. Croix District

Today, in the St. Croix District, DPW contractors completed temporary repairs to the Spring Gut bridge, maintaining safe and continued access ahead of a planned permanent replacement later this year as part of Phase 1 of the Spring Gut Improvements, funded through GARVEE Bonds. The Department also recently completed repairs along Midland Road and in the Estate Diamond Ruby community.

Additionally, contractors will begin asphalt rehabilitation work at the East Airport Intersection along Melvin Evans Highway (Route 66) from Thursday, May 7, through Saturday, May 9, 2026, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily.

During this period, the intersection will be closed to all traffic, with detours in place at the Industrial Park and Diageo intersections. The project scope includes shoulder grading to improve drainage, milling of the existing deteriorated asphalt surface, full roadway resurfacing, and restriping of the intersection.

Motorists are strongly encouraged to avoid the area during work hours and utilize alternate routes. The Department advises the traveling public to access Route 70 (Queen Mary Highway) to bypass the East Airport Intersection:

• Westbound traffic will be detoured at the Diageo Intersection via Route 663 to access Route 70.

• Eastbound traffic will be detoured at the Industrial Park Intersection via Route 669 to access Route 70.

• Airport access should be made via West Airport Road (Route 64) through the West Airport Intersection on Melvin Evans Highway.

The Department appreciates the public’s patience as these long-awaited improvements are completed. “Every project we advance is about improving quality of life for our residents,” said DPW Commissioner Derek Gabriel. “From neighborhood roads to major corridors, we are committed to delivering infrastructure that is safer, more resilient, and reflective of the needs of our communities.

Op-Ed: Showing Up Matters: A Survivor’s Journey from the Virgin Islands to the National Stage

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Op-Ed: Showing Up Matters: A Survivor’s Journey from the Virgin Islands to the National Stage
Diana Hampton and Denise Lenhardt Benoit join other advocates to lobby representatives on Capitol Hill, including Delegate Stacey Plaskett. (Photo courtesy Diane Hampton)
Diana Hampton and Denise Lenhardt Benoit, front left, join other advocates to lobby representatives on Capitol Hill, including Delegate Stacey Plaskett, during the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summit in Washington, D.C. (Photo courtesy Diane Hampton)

My journey with the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summit has been one of growth, determination, and purpose — not just for myself, but for the entire U.S. Virgin Islands community.

The VI Breast Cancer Project was founded in 2016 alongside my co-founder, Dr. Berhnard Bierlich, with a singular purpose: to support and advance research on breast cancer. From the very beginning, we understood that research is the pathway to understanding, treatment, and ultimately, a cure.

Since 2016, I have consistently attended the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summits, deepened my knowledge and strengthened my voice as an advocate. I am also a proud graduate of the NBCC LEAD Institute, where I received intensive training in breast cancer science, public policy, and advocacy — preparing me to effectively engage in the national dialogue on research and healthcare.

In 2023, there were five of us representing the Virgin Islands — one from St. Thomas and four from St. Croix. It was a proud moment to stand together, united in advocacy and committed to ensuring that our voices were part of the national conversation. In 2024, I found myself alone. I was the only voice representing the U.S. Virgin Islands. While that reality could have felt isolating, it instead strengthened my resolve. I understood more clearly than ever that showing up matters. If you are not at the table, no one knows what you want.

That same year brought an unexpected and memorable moment. While staying at the Park Hyatt Washington, we had a rare opportunity encounter with President Joe Biden. He was simply exiting the restaurant — not a scheduled meeting — but we were able to briefly speak with him. When he learned that we were from St. Croix, he was delighted, as he frequently visits the island during the Christmas holidays. That moment reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful connections happen when you simply show up and are present.

Diana Hampton and Denise Lenhardt Benoit lobby representatives on Capitol Hill, including Delegate Stacey Plaskett, during the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summit in Washington, D.C. (Photo courtesy Diane Hampton)
Diana Hampton and Denise Lenhardt Benoit lobby representatives on Capitol Hill, including Delegate Stacey Plaskett, during the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summit in Washington, D.C. (Photo courtesy Diane Hampton)

In 2026, I made a commitment: I would not go alone. Denise Lenhardt Benoit joined me, and together we represented the Virgin Islands with pride and purpose. As advocates, we stood alongside members of the National Breast Cancer Coalition and brought our voices to Capitol Hill. We met with senior staff from Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett, who has consistently supported the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program.

What makes this work so impactful is the mission behind it. The National Breast Cancer Coalition provides a critical pathway to research through advocacy and federal funding, particularly through the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program (BCRP). Attending the summit offers a unique opportunity to learn firsthand about the latest breakthroughs in breast cancer research, to engage with scientists, and to better understand how advocacy directly influences scientific progress. Their activism has generated more than $4 billion in new funding for breast cancer research. Through collaboration with scientists and stakeholders, they have helped shape new models of research — ones that are more inclusive, informed, and driven by urgency.

This is where my vision for the Virgin Islands becomes clear. It is my determination that one day the Virgin Islands will partner with leading professional research teams to specifically study breast cancer within our own population. Our community deserves research that reflects our unique experiences, our genetics, and our environment. And through continued advocacy, education, and participation in forums like the summit, I believe we can help make that vision a reality. This is why advocacy matters.

My goal is simple yet urgent: to encourage more breast cancer survivors and advocates from the Virgin Islands to participate in future summits. We have many cancer organizations across our islands, and each one carries voices that deserve to be heard on the national stage. I often say: if you’re not at the table, nobody knows what you want. You have to be there.
 You have to speak.
 And sometimes, you have to become the voice when no one else shows up.

Looking ahead to 2027, my vision is bold but achievable. I am committed to ensuring that every organization within our V.I. Cancer Coalition is represented by at least one breast cancer survivor or advocate at the summit. No matter what.

Closing Reflection

This work is bigger than me — it belongs to all of us. Together, we can ensure that the voices of the Virgin Islands are not only present, but powerful. And as long as I have a voice, I will use it to open doors for others to take their seat at the table at the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summit.

— Diane Hampton, Project Co-Founder/Project Director of Breast Cancer Project on St. Croix, cancer survivor and advocate

Editor’s Note: Opinion articles do not represent the views of the Virgin Islands Source newsroom and are the sole expressed opinion of the writer. Submissions can be made to visource@gmail.com.

Repairs on St. Croix’s East Airport Road

Mat Probasco
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Repairs on St. Croix’s East Airport Road

Dates: May 7 – 9

Work Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Virgin Islands Department of Public Works advises the public of a temporary road closure along Melvin Evans Highway from the Industrial Park Intersection to the Diage Intersection for asphalt rehabilitation at the East Airport Intersection.

DW contractor – Marco St. Croix, Inc. – will commence work on Thursday, May 7, through Saturday, May 9, between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The scope will include shoulder grading, milling, paving, and re-striping. This project is funded through GARVEE Funds.

Motorists are strongly encouraged to avoid the area and follow posted detour signage. Please refer to the provided map for clear guidance on alternate routes.

  • Westbound traffic will be diverted at the Diage Intersection via Route 663 to Route 70 (Queen Mary Highway).
  • Eastbound traffic will be diverted at the Industrial Park Intersection via Route 669 to Route 70.
  • Access to the airport should be made via West Airport Road (Route 64) through the West Airport Intersection.

DW appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as it works to improve road conditions throughout the territory.

In the Matter of the Estate of Alphonse Powell, Deceased

Legals Editor
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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
DIVISION OF ST. THOMAS AND ST. JOHN

 

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF:

Alphonse Powell a/k/a Alphonse Lewis Powell , Deceased.

PROBATE CASE NO. ST-2026-PB-00030
NOTICE TO CREDITORS

            NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Petition for Administration has been filed on behalf of the ESTATE OF Alphonse Powell a/k/a Alphonse Lewis Powell, Deceased, and that JULIA V. GREGOIRE has been appointed administratrix of the above estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to promptly present them to the undersigned or with the Court, verified by affidavit, and all persons indebted to the estate are required to make payment promptly to Kurt E. Petri, Esq., Attorney for the Estate.

Respectfully submitted,

Dated: May 5, 2026                                     

DUDLEY NEWMAN FEUERZEIG LLP
/s/Kurt E. Petri, Esq.
Kurt E. Petri, Esq.
V.I. Bar No. 1110
Law House – 1000 Frederiksberg Gade
St. Thomas, USVI 00802
Telephone: (340) 774-4422
E-mail: kpetri@dnfvi.com

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Safely

Mat Probasco
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Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Safely

From lively music and cultural celebrations to great food and community gatherings, Cinco de Mayo is a time of energy and joy across the territory. The VI Police Department/Office of Highway Safety (VIPD/OHS) is reminding everyone to celebrate responsibly and keep safety first on the road.

(Submitted photo)

Cinco de Mayo is a time of celebration, culture, and togetherness, but that spirit should never include impaired or careless driving. Alcohol, drugs, distractions, and fatigue can cause slow reaction time, impaired judgement resulting in increased crashes, serious injuries, and sometimes fatalities.

Keep the celebrations joyful by planning to:

  • Arrange for a sober driver.
  • Never drive under the influence, choose a safe way home.
  • Stay focused behind the wheel and avoid distractions. 
  • Make sure you are well-rested before getting behind the wheel.

The goal is simple: enjoy every moment of the celebration and make it home safely to do it again tomorrow.

Celebrate Big. Stay Smart. Drive Sober. Arrive Alive.

For more information about drug-impaired driving, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drug-impaired-driving. To request a traffic safety presentation or learn more about impaired driving prevention, contact the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety through Director Daphne O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov, or the Impaired Driving Program Manager, K’ Tonya Petrus at k’tonya.petrus@vi.gov.  You may also contact the office via telephone at (340) 772-3025.

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