According to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS), the axis of a Tropical Wave to the East of the Lesser Antilles is presently positioned near 53° West longitude and is expected to bring some instability and moisture across the Windwards by early Friday morning (1st September 2023).

An area of low pressure (Invest AL94), associated with a Tropical Wave in the Eastern Atlantic (near the Cabo Verde Islands), has been given a 40% chance for cyclonic development over the next forty-eight (48) hours, and a 60% chance over the next seven (7) days. This area is forecast to track to the Northwest and it poses no threat to Trinidad and Tobago at this time.

The Met Office has provided the following 5-day weather outlook for T&T:

Thursday (31st August 2023)

• Being at the Southern edge of a ridge (an area of higher pressure), Trinidad and Tobago is expected to see mainly fair and sunny conditions. With daytime heating and some moisture advection, it is likely that partly cloudy periods could occur during the late morning to afternoon, with a medium (40%) chance for the development of isolated heavy showers or thunderstorms, favouring hilly areas and Western Trinidad. A generally fair evening and night is expected with brief showers in some areas. Winds would be mostly from the East.

Friday (1st September 2023)

• A relatively weak Tropical Wave would influence some convergence and instability from early morning. Partly cloudy conditions are expected, becoming cloudy at times in some areas, with light or moderate showers. There is a medium (40% - 60%) chance for isolated heavy showers or thunderstorms. Conditions would begin to settle by early afternoon and become fairer as the day progresses. Winds would initially be from the Northeast and veering to the East and East-Southeast by late morning.

Saturday (2nd September 2023)

• Mostly fair and sunny conditions are expected with partly cloudy patches producing brief, light or moderate, showers in a few areas. Although the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is close to the latitude of Trinidad and Tobago, it is not expected to be very active, but there is still the medium (40%) chance for some associated low level convergence, together with heating and local dynamics, to produce an isolated heavy shower or thunderstorm, during the late morning or early afternoon. A fair evening and night is expected. Winds would be from the East and veering to the Southeast during the late morning to early afternoon.

Sunday (3rd September 2023)

• A mostly fair and sunny day. There is a low (20%) chance for a brief, heavy shower near hilly areas. A fair night is expected. Winds would generally be from the East and veering to the Southeast during the afternoon.

Monday (4th September 2023)

• Initially fair conditions with partly cloudy patches would interrupt the sunshine at times during the late morning and afternoon. Light or moderate showers are expected in a few areas. There is a low to medium (20% - 40%) chance for an isolated heavy shower or thunderstorm during the late morning or afternoon. Winds would generally be from East to East-Southeast.

In the event of a heavy shower or a thunderstorm, winds can become gusty and street or flash flooding is likely in the vicinity. With the occurrence of prolonged precipitation, the risk of land slips or landslides becomes elevated.

There is a mostly mild concentration of Saharan dust in the atmosphere presently. An increase to moderate concentrations can be expected by Sunday (3rd August 2023).

The Met Office notes that as an extended forecast goes further into the future, it is normal for the certainty to be reduced relative to the extended time period.

Please continue to pay attention to the latest forecasts, alerts, and information issued by the TTMS.

Commissioner of Police, Erla Christopher, has called the early morning raid at a house in the Caparo district, conducted by a Specialist Unit of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), and the seizure of ‘ghost guns’ manufactured utilizing 3D printing technology, as highly commendable.

Adding that the TTPS remains relentless in its real fight against rapidly evolving criminal elements, Commissioner Christopher said the Specialist Unit acted with great urgency to put an end to the illicit activities of a male suspect. A female relative of the man was also arrested.

Acting on information received, Officers of the Specialist Unit quickly verified that a man was allegedly performing the duties of an armourer for criminal groups in the country.

A house at Todd’s Road, Caparo, was soon targeted and enquiries revealed that the individual had advanced his criminal activities to include the manufacturing of ‘ghost guns’ using 3D printing technology.

In response to this alarming information, the Unit along with the Southern Division Task Force, executed an operation around 4:00 AM this morning (Wednesday 30th August 2023), at the suspect’s home.

A quantity of firearms, ammunition, projectiles, a 3D printer and a computer system were seized from the location.

Investigations are ongoing into the matter.

‘Ghost guns’ are firearms that can be produced using readily available 3D printing technology, making it challenging for traditional firearm control measures to detect and prevent their production. They can be manufactured without serial numbers or other identifying marks, making them difficult to trace and regulate.

The Commissioner says if such manufacturing operations become established in Trinidad and Tobago, it could lead to an increase in untraceable and illegal firearms circulating within the country.

She notes that the proliferation of illegal firearms poses significant risks to public safety and law enforcement and the lack of control over the production and distribution of these weapons could result in an increase in violent crime and contribute to the empowerment of criminal organizations.

Road users continue to engage in risky behaviours on the roadways and they result in preventable incidents which leave the families and the loved ones of the victims facing immeasurable loss. This from Police Road Safety Project Co-ordinator, Sgt. Brent Batson, as he responded to four (4) recent fatal road traffic accidents which took place between Saturday 26th and Monday 28th August 2023.

According to the Traffic and Highway Patrol Branch Roadway Surveillance Unit, these four (4) road traffic deaths bring the current road death toll to sixty-six (66), compared to sixty-six (66) for the same period last year.

Sgt. Batson says, “Although our enforcement efforts continue in targeting unsafe road-use, road users do not seem to be receiving the message and therefore, the month of August has proven to be one of the deadliest for 2023, with twelve (12) persons losing their lives in road traffic collisions, compared to six (6) in 2022 — an increase of 100%.”

Head of the Traffic and Highway Patrol Branch, Snr. Supt. Clint Arthur, notes, “The Trinidad and Tobago Police is currently engaged in a comprehensive approach to combatting crime that involves a heavy focus on road policing.”

He said drivers need to expect increased road check exercises and have their documents ready for production to Officers, but more importantly, “we appeal to the public to support our public safety efforts by complying with road traffic laws.”

Thus far for 2023, 6,460 fixed penalty notices were issued to motorists for exceeding speed limits, 16,511 for failing to wear seatbelts, 4,644 for using mobile phones when driving and 1,402 for breach of traffic lights.

Sgt. Batson says, “These traffic violation detections indicate there are still far too many motorists who are engaging in high-risk behaviours on the roads which translates to the presence of such drivers posing a danger to themselves, their passengers and other road users. With schools re-opening next week, the public can expect an increased presence of Police on the roadways.”

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) is advising citizens that the use of camera drones in Port-of-Spain and other no-fly zones on Independence Day (Thursday 31st August 2023), “is strictly prohibited.”

According to a Media Release today (Wednesday 30th August 2023), the TTPS said the no-fly zones are: Port-of-Spain, Chaguaramas, Caroni, Pointe-a-Pierre, Point Lisas, Point Fortin and Galeota.

Additionally, drones are not to be operated within five (5) kilometres of any manned aircraft operation — including the boundary of any Airport — and within two (2) kilometres of any helipad, at an altitude of over 400 feet, over any crowded area or over any public event.

The TTPS said it will be deploying counter-drone measures over Port-of-Spain and environs to assist with safety and security for the 61st Independence Day celebrations on Thursday. “Members of the Police Service’s Air Support Unit and other law enforcement agencies will be paying special attention to unauthorized and errant use of drones for the entire day.”

The TTPS added, “All necessary steps will be taken to safeguard and protect the public, service personnel, attendees and display aircraft, especially where drones create a hazard during this very security-sensitive event.”

Please be guided accordingly.

​[Source: CNC3]

A 20-year-old woman has appeared before a Chaguanas Magistrate, charged with the murder of 66-year-old Ghandi Ramlochan of Queens, New York.

According to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), Bridget Ramsumir, of Endeavour Road, Chaguanas, was charged with the offence when she appeared before Magistrate Duane Murray, in the Chaguanas First Magistrates’ Court today (Wednesday 30th August 2023).

The matter was adjourned to 27th September 2023.

Ghandi arrived in Trinidad on 1st July 2023 and was last seen alive by his relatives on 2nd July 2023 in the company of a woman.

A missing person’s report was made the next day when he did not return home and calls to his cellular phone went unanswered.

The victim’s remains were found inside a burnt car on Monday 3rd July 2023.

A female suspect was arrested in connection with the matter on Tuesday 22nd August 2023.

Investigations were spearheaded by Supt. Dhillpaul, and supervised by ASP Persad and led by Sgt. Bridgemohan, all of the Homicide Bureau of Investigations (HBI) Region III.

Ramsumir was charged by WPC George, also of HBI Region III, on Monday (28th August 2023), following advice received from Acting Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mrs. Jaglal, on that same date.

The Ministry of Works and Transport is advising the public that there will be a temporary traffic disruption along the Churchill Roosevelt Highway, O'Meara Road Intersection - Westbound. This disruption will take place from today (Wednesday 30th August 2023) and is expected to be completed by tomorrow (Thursday 31st August 2023). This has become necessary to facilitate road repair works.

Hours of Work: 8:00 PM - 5:00 AM

Considering the above, motorists are advised to comply with the following:

• Proceed with caution and observe all directional signs and barriers.
• Comply with instructions from Police Officers on-site to facilitate a safe and orderly flow of traffic.
• Be aware of heavy equipment entering and exiting the site.
• Drive with caution on all milled (possibly uneven) surfaces.
• Motorists should drive at a reduced speed on approaching the work zone.

The Ministry said it regrets any inconvenience caused and thanks the public for its continued co-operation. For further information, please visit the Ministry’s website (www.mowt.gov.tt) or call the PURE Unit at 638-2350, 638-2256 or 675-4052.

As the new school term is scheduled to begin on Monday (4th September 2023), the Ministry of Health is informing the public, particularly parents and guardians, of good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of viruses such as Conjunctivitis, Influenza and other respiratory viruses, Gastroenteritis, Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease and Chickenpox.

These good hygiene practices include the following:

• Washing hands regularly with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers (containing at least 70% alcohol);
• Regular cleaning and sanitizing of high-touched surfaces (e.g. door knobs, countertops, desks);
• Avoid sharing personal items like utensils, water bottles, towels and wash rags with others;
• Avoid touching your face and eyes;
• Avoid close contact with persons who display symptoms of infectious viruses;
• Stay away from school or work if you are ill.

The Ministry notes that all outbreaks of infectious viruses should be reported to the relevant County Medical Officer of Health (CMOH). The public is also reminded that in accordance with the Public Health (Nursery Schools and Primary Schools Immunization) Act 1973, children entering nursery and primary schools must be vaccinated.

Further, in light of high temperatures (heated conditions) experienced in recent times, parents and guardians are reminded to take the necessary precautions to ensure children stay hydrated by eating fruits and vegetables (at least 2 - 4 servings daily), drinking at least 8 - 10 glasses of water and staying within shaded areas where possible.

According to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS), today (Wednesday 30th August 2023) will be generally hot and sunny with the likelihood of isolated showers, especially near hilly areas. There is a low (20%) chance of the odd isolated thunderstorm. Tonight will be generally fair apart from the odd isolated shower.

The forecast maximum temperature today will be 33°C at Piarco in Trinidad and 32°C at Crown Point in Tobago.

Seas are slight with waves up to 1.3m in open waters and below 0.5m in sheltered areas.

Please continue to pay attention to the latest forecasts, alerts, and information issued by the TTMS.

The Trinidad and Tobago Electrical Commission (T&TEC) is advising the public to decrease their electricity usage amid rising temperatures in the country. The Commission said it recorded its highest-ever consumer electricity demand of 1,400.2 Megawatts (MW) last week, on Thursday 24th August 2023. This record-breaking level was reached whilst Trinidad and Tobago is experiencing unusually high temperatures.

In a Media Release today (Wednesday 30th August 2023), General Manager of T&TEC, Curvis Francois, acknowledged that the high temperatures would have likely caused increased usage of air conditioning units, which typically account for the highest percentage of electricity consumption in households. Coupled with the traditional increased usage during the July/August holidays, “the impact on demand is not unexpected,” he said.

While T&TEC has more than enough installed capacity (2,037 MW) to meet the surge in demand for electricity, the increased demand does result in increased natural gas usage. Practicing conservation, once safe to do so, will therefore help reduce the impact on the availability of natural gas.

T&TEC is advising the public to practice the following electricity conservation tips:

• Raising the temperature on AC units by a few degrees to minimize the load and use fans to maintain comfort (every degree of cooling increases energy use by 6% - 8%).
• Shielding the sun by closing window coverings like blinds and curtains to shield the sun’s rays so that the AC unit does not work harder to keep the home cool.
• Reducing water heating by lowering the temperature on tank water heaters or turning them off for one (1) or two (2) days; most outdoor water storage tanks will be sufficiently heated by the sun. Avoid using hot water for laundry and doing dishes.
• Unplugging appliances when not in use to prevent energy wastage. Turning off the ceiling fan and/or lights before leaving rooms to help lower energy usage. Common energy wasters include gaming consoles (e.g. Xbox, PS5), stereo systems, personal computers and desktop printers, and TVs. If these must remain plugged in, ensure they are in energy-saving mode.
• Using efficient lighting by switching to energy-efficient LEDs, which consume significantly less electricity and generate less heat.

​[Source: CNC3]

The Ministry of Works and Transport is advising the general public that due to a utility challenge on the Caroni Licensing compound, the Office will be closed from 10:00 AM today (Wednesday 30th August 2023). Normal hours of operation will resume on Friday 1st September 2023.

The Ministry notes that persons affected by this closure are NOT required to reschedule their appointment and will be accommodated during the period Friday 1st September - Thursday 7th September 2023. To complete a transaction, an individual MUST provide proof of their previously scheduled appointment for the Caroni Licensing Office.

Additionally, persons are reminded that proof of address (utility bill no older than 3 months) is required to complete a licensing transaction. The accepted forms of proof of address include a cable bill, home internet bill, electricity bill (T&TEC), OR water bill (WASA). If a customer does not have a utility bill in their name, he or she is required to produce a letter of authorization from the owner and a copy of their national identification.

The Ministry said it apologizes for any inconvenience caused and thanks the public for their continued co-operation.