3 DAY PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST MONDAY JUNE 22ND 2026
PUBLIC FORECAST FOR THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FOR THE NEXT THREE DAYS FROM MONDAY JUNE 22ND 2026
GENERAL SITUATION: A plume of Saharan Dust continues to cover the Turks and Caicos Islands, while high pressure ridging will continue to support breezy conditions across the islands today.
SPECIAL WARNINGS: A Dust Advisory is in effect for the Turks & Caicos Islands. Moderate Saharan dust concentrations are affecting the aforementioned areas, reducing visibility and impacting air quality. Residents, especially those with respiratory conditions, should take the necessary precautions to safeguard their health.
ALL AREAS
WEATHER: Partly sunny and hazy today. Mostly fair with isolated showers possible tonight.
WINDS: East to southeast at 15 to 25 knots
SEA STATE: Slight to moderate with wave heights of 2 to 4 feet, building up to 5 feet offshore.
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 91°F 33°C
HEAT INDEX 102°F 39°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 79°F 26°C
SUNSET: 07:34 PM
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 03:37 PM (2.3 FT)
NEXT LOW TIDE: 10:03 PM (1.0 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: High pressure will maintain breezy conditions and slight to moderate seas through the rest of the week. A second surge of Saharan dust is expected, bringing continued hazy skies, very warm temperatures, and little to no rainfall across the islands.
TUESDAY: Partly sunny, with a high near 91°F (33°C).
TUESDAY NIGHT: Mostly fair, with a low around 81°F (27°C).
WINDS: East to southeast at 10 to 20 knots
SEA STATE: Slight to moderate with wave heights of 2 to 4 feet
SUNRISE: 06:07 AM
SUNSET: 07:34 PM
HIGH TIDE: 03:58 AM (2.3 FT) 04:39 PM (2.6 FT)
LOW TIDE: 10:11 AM (1.0 FT) 11:12 PM (1.0 FT)
WEDNESDAY: Isolated showers possible. Partly sunny, with a high near 91°F (33°C).
WEDNESDAY NIGHT: A low (10 percent) chance of isolated showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 81°F (27°C).
WINDS: Easterly at 10 to 15 knots
SEA STATE: Slight to moderate with wave heights of 2 to 4 feet
SUNRISE: 06:07 AM
SUNSET: 07:34 PM
HIGH TIDE: 04:58 AM (2.0 FT) 05:36 PM (2.6 FT)
LOW TIDE: 11:04 AM (1.0 FT) - - - - -
TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK: Tropical cyclone activity is not expected during the next 7 days.
FORECASTER: H. HAMILTON
Largest Cocaine Bust in Australia's History
Australian police have seized 2.7 metric tons (3 tons) of cocaine in the largest drug bust in the nation’s history, authorities announced on Monday.
The narcotic, cocaine was discovered on June 19th at a semi-rural property in Londonderry, on Sydney’s western outskirts.
According to the Queensland Joint Organised Crime Taskforce, the drugs were concealed in plastic containers buried in underground bunkers beneath three shipping containers fitted with false floors that provided access to the stash.
Police estimate the cocaine has a street value of approximately A$816 million (US$572 million).
Two Sydney men, aged 21 and 25, were arrested at the property and charged with possessing a commercial quantity of an illicit drug. If convicted, they could face life imprisonment.
The seizure surpasses Australia’s previous record cocaine bust of 2.34 metric tons, which was intercepted from a fishing vessel near K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) off the Queensland coast in 2024.
Australia remains a highly attractive destination for drug traffickers because cocaine commands some of the highest prices in the world on the Australian market.
Dunn's River Falls Recognized in TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice Awards
Dunn’s River Falls and Park has been recognized as a winner in the 2026 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, placing the iconic Jamaican attraction among the top 10% of attractions worldwide based on visitor reviews and ratings.
The recognition, announced Wednesday, is based on consistently positive reviews submitted by travellers over a 12-month period. According to the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), which manages the attraction, the award reflects excellence in customer experience, service delivery, environmental stewardship and destination management.
The UDC described the recognition as another milestone for Jamaica’s tourism sector and the country’s global tourism brand.
Dunn’s River Falls remains one of Jamaica’s most significant natural and cultural landmarks.
Located in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, Dunn’s River Falls and Park is one of the Caribbean’s most visited attractions, drawing visitors with its signature waterfall-climbing experience, beach access and eco-tourism offerings.
Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer Announces Resignation
Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Monday that he would step down as both Labour Party leader and prime minister, paving the way for the United Kingdom to have its seventh prime minister in just ten years.
Starmer said he had spoken with King Charles and expected to remain in office until the Labour Party selects a successor.
Having led Labour Party since 2020, Starmer became prime minister after the party’s victory in the 2024 general election.
He said he had asked party officials to begin the nomination process for a new leader on July 9. While he did not specify an exact departure date from 10 Downing Street, he said he anticipated a new prime minister would be in place by September, when Parliament returns from its summer break.
The announcement follows months of political turbulence for Starmer. Critics within his Labour Party argued that his government had failed to deliver the pace of change voters expected after 14 years of Conservative rule.
Pressure on Starmer intensified after May’s local elections, in which the Labour Party lost more than 1,000 council seats. Many party members viewed the results as a clear rebuke of the government’s performance and subsequently urged him to resign.
Although no formal leadership challenge had been launched by Monday, support had increasingly gathered around Andy Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, as a potential successor.
Burnham, who won a by-election on Friday to become the Member of Parliament for Makerfield, was expected to be sworn into the House of Commons on Monday and also Following Starmer’s announcement, he confirmed on social media that he would seek a nomination in the upcoming Labour Party leadership contest.
The Bight MP Hon. Audric Skippings Says Recent Fire Calls For Station In Tourism District
A vehicle fire that spread to four cars at Grace Bay Club on Wednesday, June 17, has ignited concerns from the newly elected MP for the Bight, Audric Skippings, over the absence of a dedicated fire station in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ primary tourism district, despite no injuries being reported.
The incident began during the afternoon when a resort employee’s vehicle caught fire while parked on the property. The blaze quickly spread to three additional vehicles before emergency crews were able to control the fire.
Hon. K. Audric Skippings, Member of Parliament for ED6, The Bight, described the incident as a “wake-up call” for the Turks and Caicos Islands.
In a statement on June 17th, Hon. Skippings stated:
“Grace Bay is the economic engine of our tourism industry, home to world-class resorts, thriving businesses, and thousands of visitors every day. It is also home to hardworking residents and employees who deserve the same level of emergency protection as every other community.”
Despite being the territory’s premier tourism destination, Grace Bay currently lacks its own fire station. Fire crews must respond from other parts of Providenciales, a situation Hon. Skippings said can result in critical delays during emergencies.
Skippings urged the government to prioritize the construction of a fully staffed and properly equipped fire station in the Grace Bay district, arguing that the need extends beyond protecting tourism assets.
According to Skippings, a dedicated fire station would significantly improve emergency response times, strengthen public safety, protect multimillion-dollar investments, and provide greater peace of mind for residents, workers, business owners, and tourists alike.
He emphasized that as the Turks and Caicos Islands continues to grow, its emergency services infrastructure must keep pace with development.
The Member of Parliament also warned against waiting for a more serious incident before taking action.
“The time to act is now, We should not wait for another major emergency to remind us of what is at stake. A dedicated fire station in Grace Bay is not a luxury—it is a necessity.”
Graduation Season In Turks and Caicos Approaching
Graduation season is here... students are now finished with high school and preparing for college studies or the working world.
The top performing students across our public high schools have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement.
At HJ Robinson High School in Grand Turk (HJRHS), Brianna Williams earned the title of Valedictorian with an impressive average of 93.90%, followed closely by Salutatorian Shakea Forbes with 93.76%, and Runner-Up Esmarlin Capron with 91.31%.
At Marjorie Basden High School over in South Caicos (MBHS), Ta’Halia Davidson secured the Valedictorian position with 90.56%, while Samantha Julcin and Abinasabia Prophet achieved 87.43% and 81.55% to claim the Salutatorian and Runner-Up spots respectively.
In Providenciales... Clement Howell High School (CHHS) saw Brantley Saul lead with 89.9% as Valedictorian, followed by Achenie Desir at 88.0%, Mercia Norve at 85%.
Lastly, at Raymond Gardiner High School (RGHS), the Green Machine in North Caicos... Tania Herrera emerged as Valedictorian with 81.80%, with Alecia Bobb (79.92%) and Lauren Oné (76.94%) rounding out the top three positions.
Three hundred twenty-seven (327) young men and women will formally exit our Public High Schools in graduation ceremonies to be hosted around the family islands between June 29th and July 2nd 2026.
H. J. Robinson High
June 29th @ the School’s Auditorium
Theme: Our Journey Begins: Embracing the Road Ahead with Courage and Determination
Marjorie Basden High
June 30th @ Saltera Resort Ballroom
Theme: Turning Our Moments Into Milestones
Raymond Gardiner High
July 1st @ Horse Stable Beach
Theme: Rising with Purpose, Rooted in Excellence
Clement Howell High
July 2nd @ Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex Theme: Unyielding in Pursuit, Unmatched in Potential
Graduation is not just about receiving a certificate—it represents growth, success, and preparation for a brighter future.
Congratulations classes of 2026! Your future is bright!
Jamaican Born Chef Named Winner of Season 5 for American Cooking Competition
Jamaican-born chef Darian Bryan has been named the winner of Season 5 of the popular American cooking competition Next Level Chef, triumphing over fellow finalists Connor Caine and Nicole Lawson.
The Fox series began with 24 contestants competing across three categories: professional chefs, home cooks, and social media chefs.
Bryan secured the title after successfully completing a challenging 90-minute finale that required contestants to create a three-course menu while utilizing every level of the show’s signature multi-story kitchen.
With the victory, Bryan takes home the $250,000 grand prize along with a year-long mentorship under renowned chefs Gordon Ramsay, Nyesha Arrington, and Richard Blais.
Throughout the season, Bryan proudly showcased his Jamaican heritage, infusing his dishes with authentic Caribbean flavors and culinary traditions. His commitment to representing Jamaican cuisine remained a central theme of his journey in the competition.
Speaking to TV Insider following his win, Bryan described the achievement as a blessing.
“Coming from Jamaica with very little and then being crowned champion on a stage like this is incredible,” To do it on a Gordon Ramsay show—someone I’ve looked up to and learned from for years—makes it even more special.”
Bryan revealed that several components of his final menu were inspired by Jamaica’s vibrant street food culture, reflecting the flavors and experiences that shaped his culinary identity.
His passion for cooking began in his mother’s cookshop in Jamaica, where he learned to prepare traditional dishes and developed the skills that would later define his career. Among the first meals he mastered was curry chicken, a dish he still holds close to his roots.
The chef also expressed pride in receiving praise for Jamaican cuisine from Ramsay, one of the world’s most celebrated culinary figures, calling it a meaningful recognition of the food culture he has proudly represented throughout the competition.
Porter Airlines Offers New Non-Stop Flights to Providenciales from Canada
The Turks and Caicos Islands is set to strengthen its connectivity with Canada as Porter Airlines launches new non-stop flights from Toronto and Ottawa to Providenciales, offering Canadian travellers greater access to one of the Caribbean’s premier luxury destinations.
Beginning November 6, 2026, Porter Airlines will operate five weekly flights between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Howard Hamilton International Airport (PLS) in Providenciales.
The airline will also introduce twice-weekly service from Ottawa International Airport (YOW) starting December 17, 2026.
The new routes mark a significant expansion of airlift from Canada, one of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ fastest-growing source markets.
Increased connectivity is expected to boost visitor arrivals during the winter season while providing travellers with more options and convenience when planning their Caribbean escapes.
The service forms part of Porter Airlines’ expanding winter programme and reflects growing demand among Canadian travellers for the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Zhavargo Jolly, welcomed the announcement, emphasizing Canada’s growing importance to the destination’s tourism strategy.
He noted that Experience Turks and Caicos has invested heavily over the past year in travel advisor training, tour operator engagement, and strategic marketing and public relations initiatives across Canada and we are seeing the results of those efforts.
Minister with Responsibility for Aviation and the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority, Hon. Arlington Musgrove, highlighted the critical role air connectivity plays in supporting tourism and economic growth stating that the announcement reflects growing confidence in the destination and underscores the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority’s ongoing efforts to develop strategic airline partnerships and expand service opportunities.
The new routes will be operated using Porter Airlines’ Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, featuring 132 seats with no middle seats and the airline’s signature elevated economy experience.
Canadian travellers continue to be drawn to the Turks and Caicos Islands for its award-winning beaches, luxury accommodations, vibrant culinary offerings, world-class marine experiences, and renowned hospitality.
Flight Schedule
Toronto Pearson (YYZ) – Providenciales (PLS)
* Launches: November 6, 2026
* Frequency: Five times weekly (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday)
Ottawa (YOW) – Providenciales (PLS)
* Launches: December 17, 2026
* Frequency: Twice weekly (Thursday and Sunday)
NBA Star James Harden Arrested Saturday in Texas
Cleveland Cavaliers player James Harden was arrested on Saturday in Houston, Texas, on a misdemeanor charge of unlawful carrying of a weapon in a motor vehicle, according to the Harris County District Clerk’s Office.
Harden was arrested at 3:41 a.m. and booked just before 5 a.m., then posted $100 bond and was released from police custody, according to charging documents, which said he had a handgun in plain view that was not in a holster.
His arraignment is scheduled for June 22, according to the clerk’s office website. Harden is listed as a Houston resident in court documents.
Harden, 36 years old, just finished his 17th NBA season and has the right to exercise a $42.3 million option to return to the Cavaliers next season. He indicated when Cleveland’s playoff run ended with a loss to the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals that he would like to remain with the club, which would suggest he’s willing to forgo the option in favor of a longer contract with the Cavaliers.
Harden is an 11-time All-Star and an eight-time All-NBA selection who earned MVP honors in the 2017-18 season while playing for the Houston Rockets.
Virgin Islands Man Pleads Guilty to Smuggling Nearly 89 Grams of Fentanyl into St. Croix
A Virgin Islands man has plead guilty to smuggling nearly 89 grams of fentanyl into St. Croix through the mail—an amount authorities say was potentially lethal enough to kill every resident of the island.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Mario Felix, 36 years old, mailed a hollowed-out black book from Hollywood, Florida, to St. Croix on Dec. 27, 2022.
Hidden inside the book were 800 fentanyl tablets.
Federal officers intercepted the package on Dec. 31, and investigators later linked it to Felix through fingerprints and other evidence.
Authorities said the seized fentanyl weighed 88.67 grams, or 88,670 milligrams. The Drug Enforcement Administration warns that as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size and tolerance.
Based on that estimate, officials said the shipment contained approximately 44,335 potentially lethal doses—more than enough to kill St. Croix’s estimated population of about 41,000 residents.
Felix plead guilty to attempted possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, a charge carrying a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years. Prosecutors have not announced a sentencing date.
Court records show Felix has an extensive criminal history dating back more than a decade.
In 2010, he plead guilty to reckless endangerment, property destruction, and firearms offenses. A year later, federal authorities charged him with possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, powder cocaine, and marijuana, along with additional firearms violations.
In 2014, Felix plead guilty to possessing, distributing, or manufacturing a controlled substance as part of a plea agreement that resulted in the dismissal of several firearms charges. In 2016, he plead no contest to charges involving vehicle tampering and property destruction.
Federal prosecutors again charged Felix in 2020 with illegally possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon in a school zone.
Online court records also indicate Felix faced additional felony arrests in 2009, 2011, and 2012, although available documents do not provide further details on those cases.