Category Archives: Caribbean

The Royal Caribbean International cruise ships are on the move once again.

While half of the brands 25-ship fleet is now back in service, several vessels are being prepared for their service returns.

Here is the location of every Royal Caribbean ship as of early September:

Odyssey of the SeasYear Built: 2021Capacity: 4,100 guestsLocation: Western Caribbean

After entering service on July 31, the Odyssey of the Seas is offering a series of Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale. The Quantum Ultra-Class vessel is presently sailing to the Southern Caribbean on an eight-night itinerary.

Spectrum of the SeasYear Built: 2019Capacity: 4,100 guestsLocation: Hong Kong

Based in Asia, the Spectrum of the Seas is in Hong Kong. The vessel is expected to resume service in October with short cruises from the citys Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.

Symphony of the SeasYear Built: 2018Capacity: 5,400 guestsLocation: Western Caribbean

The Symphony of the Seas resumed service on August 14 after a 17-month operational pause. Currently the Oasis-class vessel is sailing to the Western Caribbean on a week-long cruise.

Ovation of the SeasYear Built: 2016 Capacity: 4,100 guestsLocation: Alaska

Another Royal Caribbean ship back in service, the Ovation of the Seas is presently cruising in Alaska. The Quantum-class vessel is set to stay in the Last Frontier through early October.

Harmony of the SeasYear Built: 2016Capacity: 5,400 guestsLocation: Western Mediterranean

After undergoing regular maintenance in April, the Harmony of the Seas relaunched service on August 15.The ship is currently offering week-long Western Mediterranean cruises, sailing from Barcelona, Spain.

Anthem of the Seas Year Built: 2015Capacity: 4,100 guestsLocation: Coast of England

The Anthem of the Seas is currently offering domestic cruises around the UK. Based in Southampton, the vessel reentered service on July 7.

Quantum of the SeasYear Built: 2014Capacity: 4,100 guestsLocation: Singapore

In service since November 2020, the Quantum of the Seas was the first Royal Caribbean ship to welcome guests back. Based in Singapore, the ship is offering short cruises to nowhere to the local residents.

Allure of the SeasYear Built: 2010Capacity: 5,400 guestsLocation: Eastern Caribbean

The Allure of the Seas resumed guest operations on August 8. The vessel is now offering cruises from Port Canaveral, alternating itineraries to Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Oasis of the SeasYear Built: 2009Capacity: 5,400 guestsLocation: U.S. East Coast

Ready to resume service, the Oasis of the Seas recently concluded a test sailing from New Jersey. The vessel is now awaiting its first commercial sailing from Cape Liberty, scheduled for September 5.

Independence of the SeasYear Built: 2008Capacity: 3,600 guestsLocation: Western Caribbean

After resuming service on August 15, the Independence of the Seas is currently sailing in the Western Caribbean. Based in Galveston, the ship is offering week-long cruises in the region until the end of September.

Liberty of the SeasYear Built: 2007Capacity: 3,600 guestsLocation: Florida

The Liberty of the Seas returned to the United States recentl, after a routine drydock in Cdiz, Spain. The ship is presently in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Freedom of the SeasYear Built: 2006Capacity: 3,600 guestsLocation: Bahamas

The Freedom of the Seas is currently departing Miami two times per week, offering three- and four-night cruises to Nassau and CocoCay. In Julythe vessel was the first to resume service for the Royal Caribbean International brand in the United States.

Jewel of the SeasYear Built: 2004Capacity: 2,100 guestsLocation: Eastern Mediterranean

Based in Cyprus, the Jewel of the Seas resumed service on July 10. The vessel is currently offering a week-long Eastern Mediterranean itinerary, with visits to five destinations in Greece.

Mariner of the SeasYear Built: 2003Capacity: 3,100 guestsLocation: Bahamas

Sailing from Port Canaveral, the Mariner of the Seas returned to guest operations on August 23, offering a series of short Bahamas cruises.

Serenade of the SeasYear Built: 2003Capacity: 2,100 guestsLocation: Alaska

The Serenade of the Seas is currently sailing in Alaska. The vessel resumed service on July 19 after a 15-month service pause.

Navigator of the SeasYear Built: 2002Capacity: 3,100 guestsLocation: Pacific

After a drydock stay in Cdizs Navantia shipyard, the Navigator of the Seas is heading to the United States West Coast via the Pacific. Set to enter service in November with a series of cruises from Los Angeles, the Voyager-class ship is currently approaching California after a 30-day voyage.

Brilliance of the SeasYear Built: 2002Capacity: 2,100 guestsLocation: The Bahamas

Awaiting the service resumption in the Bahamas, the Brilliance of the Seas is currently anchored near the island of CocoCay.

Adventure of the SeasYear Built: 2001Capacity: 3,100 guestsLocation: The Bahamas and Caribbean

After welcoming the guests back on June 12, the Adventure of the Seas is wrapping up its first post-pandemic season. Until mid-September the ship offers three more week-long cruises to the Bahamas and Mexico before relaunching service from Galveston, in October.

Radiance of the SeasYear Built: 2001Capacity: 2,100 guestsLocation: Cdiz, Spain

After spending several months in Asia, the Radiance of the Seas returned to Europe for a shipyard visit in Spain. The vessel is currently in one of the drydocks of Navantias Cdiz facility.

Explorer of the SeasYear Built: 2000Capacity: 3,100 guestsLocation: St. Maarten

Awaiting the service resumption in the Caribbean, the Explorer of the Seas is presently anchored off the island of St. Maarten.

Voyager of the SeasYear Built: 1999Capacity: 3,100 guestsLocation: Hong Kong

Currently anchored near Hong Kong, the Voyager of the Seas is spending the operational pause in Asia.

Vision of the SeasYear Built: 1998Capacity: 2,000 guestsLocation: St. Maarten

After a technical call in Philipsburg, the Vision of the Seas is currently anchored off the island of St. Maarten along with the Explorer of the Seas.

Rhapsody of the SeasYear Built: 1997Capacity: 2,100 guestsLocation: Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Spending the operational pause in the Caribbean, the Rhapsody of the Seas is presently docked in Philipsburg, St. Maarten.

Enchantment of the SeasYear Built: 1997

Capacity: 2,250 guestsLocation: Cdiz, Spain

After crossing the Atlantic in August, the Enchantment of the Seas is presently docked in Cdiz, Spain. The Vision-class ship sailed to the port for a routine drydock in the Navantia shipyard.

Grandeur of the SeasYear Built: 1996

Capacity: 1,950 guestsLocation: Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Set to resume service in December, the Grandeur of the Seas is in the Caribbean. Likeits sister ship Rhapsody of the Seas, the vessel is currently docked in Philipsburg, St. Maarten.

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Where Are The Royal Caribbean Ships? Fleet Location Update - Cruise Industry News

In a significant boost to its tourism, the Dutch Caribbean island of Statia has opened its first full-fledged resort hotel.

The new Golden Rock Dive and Nature Resort officially opened its doors at the beginning of this month.

The resort has a mix of rooms and suites, with amenities including a pool with a sun terrace, a spa, a restaurant, in-room dining a fitness center.

Great strides have been made in Statia despite the different setbacks in the tourism hospitality and travel sector caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, said Charles Lindo, Director of the St Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation. The local government has made great progress in enhancing the infrastructure (roads, internet service, reliable stable electricity) along with a brand new airport and tower building. The addition and recent opening of the Golden Rock Resort is proof that Statia tourism will definitely bounce forward.

Deluxe rooms have a kitchenette, while suites have full kitchens.

Thats along with a mini golf course, a soccer field, a tennis court and a playground for kids.

The resort also offers the option of daily grocery delivery.

Its also home to what has become the islands signature restaurant, Breeze, which offers an international menu with everything from truffle risotto and tuna tataki to Caribbean lobster and Thai red curry.

The resort is set at the base of Statias famous Quill volcano, long one of the regions most sought-after hiking destinations.

The reopening comes after Statia recently reopened its borders for tourism.

Travelers are welcome, vaccinated and non vaccinated with specific restrictions for both groups, Lindo told Caribbean Journal.

You can find more about how to visit Statia here.

For more, visit the Golden Rock.

CJ

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A Brand-New Resort Just Opened on the Island of Statia - Caribbean Journal

Royal Caribbean is cleared to begin cruises with paying passengers on Oasis of the Seas.

Cruises from the New York City area are a go to begin, as Royal Caribbean reported on Friday it has received approval from theU.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for Oasis of the Seas.

Oasis of the Seas had a 6-night test cruise on August 22, where the crew vetted the new health protocols onboard.

The first revenue sailing with Oasis of the Seas will commence on September 5 from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey. It is a 7-night itinerary to the cruise lines private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, The Bahamas.

Oasis is the latest Royal Caribbean cruise ship to get CDC approval to sail, which means she now has herConditional Sailing Certificate.

In order to sail on Oasis of the Seas, guests age 12 or older must be fully vaccinated.

Vaccinated guests must present a negative PCR or antigen test result taken no more than 2 days prior to sailing in order to board.Unvaccinated children ages 2 to 11 must present a negative PCR test result taken no more than 3 days prior to sailing in order to board.

All unvaccinated guests ages 2 to 11 must undergo 2 more Covid-19 tests at the cruise terminal and prior to disembarking.

Guests under 2 years of age will not be tested.

All crew onboard all ships in the fleet will be fully vaccinated.

Guests who have been vaccinated will have full access to venues onboard, and will not need to wear a face mask at vaccinated-only venues. Here is a list of venues and activities available to vaccinated-only guests, as well as everyone.

Oasis of the Seas is the 14th cruise ship to restart operations in Royal Caribbean's fleet.

Other ships that have restarted sailings include:

Oasis will offer7-night Bahamas cruises from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, starting Sept. 5; and 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami, beginning November

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Royal Caribbean gets CDC approval for Oasis of the Seas to sail - Royal Caribbean Blog

Some are calling it the "Fauci Effect." Others attribute it to a lack of gap year opportunities or a less burdensome virtual application process. Whatever the reason, one thing is clear: applications to medical school have skyrocketed.

Medical schools have gotten more competitive and hopefully applicants are turning towards ... [+] alternative paths to medicine.

According to the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC), applications increased 18% over the 2020 cycle. They grew less than 3% per year, on average, over the last decade.

The dramatic increase in apps this year is an acceleration of a long-running trend. The number of applicants jumped nearly 60% between 2002 and 2020. The number of spots available at U.S. medical schools hasn't kept pace. Between 2002 and 2020, the number of students who enrolled in med school increased just 35%.

During the most recent application cycle, Boston University School of Medicine received over 12,000 applications for 110 seats. Stanford University School of Medicine received 11,000 applications for 90 seats.

Increasingly long admissions odds are causing many U.S. students to consider medical schools abroad, particularly those in the Caribbean.

A 1980 report published by the federally chartered Graduate Medical Education National Advisory Committee predicted that the United States would soon have an excess of doctors. So no new medical schools were established in the two decades that followed.

But since then, the U.S. population has grown and aged. That has dramatically increased demand for physician care. Now, the country is projected to be short up to 124,000 doctors by 2034, according to the AAMC's latest figures.

Creating a new medical school requires years of work and millions of dollars. And it's difficult for existing schools to grow. As Geoffrey Young, the AAMC's senior director of student affairs and programs, said in an interview with MedPage Today earlier this year, many schools lack the necessary resources to support larger classes and would have to go through a laborious accreditation process to boost class sizes.

"For decades, medical schools weren't meeting the needs of an increasingly older U.S. population. Now, they're forced to play a game of catch-up," said Dr. G. Richard Olds, co-founder of UC-Riverside School of Medicine and current president of St. George's University (SGU) in Grenada, in an interview with Moon Prep.

Consequently, there won't be enough medical school slots for the foreseeable future. As Jayme Bograd, director of application services, recruitment, and student affairs for the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, told MedPage Today in January, "There will be qualified people that just don't have a seat to medical school this year."

Qualified students who come out on the wrong end of an admissions decision may find that a Caribbean medical school is a worthwhile option.

International med schools may be more willing to look beyond a low MCAT score or one semester of subpar grades than U.S. schools. There are plenty of people who would make excellent doctors who do not have the opportunity to work in hospitals or have experiences and skills that compensate for a lower-than-average GPA. International schools take pride in finding - and admitting - them.

"A student's test-taking ability shouldn't define their potential as a doctor," Olds said. "Caribbean medical schools provide a necessary pathway for thousands of highly competitive U.S. applicants every year."

It's important to note that not all Caribbean medical schools are created equal. While some have long-standing records of student success, others have varying attrition rates, accreditation status, and student opportunities.

Consequently, applicants must research the Caribbean medical schools they're considering and weigh their options carefully. Medical school hopefuls should ask about the school's accreditation, federal student loan qualification, affiliated hospitals, student support, and residency match rates before making a decision. St. George's University, for example, placed over 1,000 students in residencies this year.

More and more students are attending medical school abroad - and then returning to the United States to practice. Since 2010, the number of international medical graduates (IMGs) practicing in the United States has grown by nearly 18%.

According to the latest data from the Federation of State Medical Boards, the share of licensed U.S. IMGs who have graduated from Caribbean medical schools has increased by more than 150% since 2010. About one-quarter of all licensed doctors in the United States are international medical graduates. Many of them are U.S. citizens.

"More than three-quarters of SGU students are U.S. citizens," Olds said. "Our students are also more likely to work in underserved areas and specialties where physician shortages are most acute."

More students are applying to medical schools than ever before. After careful research and consideration, many of them may decide that pursuing their medical educations abroad is a smart move.

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As Medical School Applications Skyrocket, More Candidates May Turn To The Caribbean - Forbes

With its cruise restart plan picking up pace, the Royal Caribbean Group will a achieve a major milestone in August.

By the end of the month, more than half of the groups 61-ship fleet have will be back in commercial service.

The 34 vessels sailing around the world mean 56% percent of the companys fleet is now operating with passengers in several destinations.

This fall, more ships, homeports and itineraries are set to return. Here are the latest plans, brand by brand:

Royal Caribbean InternationalStatus:13 ships in service; three more to follow through October Ships:Quantum of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas in service; Oasis of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas set to follow Regions:Asia, Caribbean, Bahamas, Mediterranean, United Kingdom and Alaska

More than half of the Royal Caribbean International 25-ship fleet has now returned to commercial service.

With 13 active vessels, the brand is currently sailing to several destinations around the world, including the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Asia and Alaska.

In September and October three additional ships are set to resume service, including the Oasis of the Seas.

On September 5, the vessel to the Oasis become the first to welcome passengers back in the New York region, offering weeklong cruises to the Bahamas from Bayonne

The balance of the Royal Caribbean fleet is poised to return to guest operations by May 2022.

Celebrity CruisesStatus:Seven ships in service; two more to follow in September and October Ships:Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Silhouette, Celebrity Flora, Celebrity Millennium, Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Equinox in service; Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Xploration set to follow Regions:Mediterranean, Caribbean, Bahamas, United Kingdom and the Galapagos

With a bold restart plan, Celebrity Cruises added seven ships back into service since first resuming guest operations on June 5, 2021.

In the North America, the Celebrity Summit recently completed a series of Caribbean sailings from St. Maarten.

The vessel is now poised to return to the United States, offering short cruises to Mexico and the Bahamas.

The Celebrity Edge, the Celebrity Equinox and the Celebrity Millennium are also in service in Europe, while other ships are in operation in Europe and the Galapagos.

TUI CruisesStatus:Six ships in serviceShips:Mein Schiff 1, Mein Schiff 2, Mein Schiff 3, Mein Schiff 4, Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 6Regions:Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Greece and Italy

After announcing plans to have its entire seven-ship fleet in service this summer, TUI Cruises welcomed guests back on six vessels.

Based in Germany, the brand is currently sailing to several destinations in Europe.

After several months sailing only in the Canaries archipelago, TUI expanded operations to Germany and Greece recently.

A return to the Mediterranean was also carried out with cruises calling in Spain and Italy.

Silversea CruisesStatus:Three ships in service; two more to follow Ships:Silver Origin, Silver Moon and Silver Muse in service; Silver Shadow and Silver Spirit set to follow Region:Galapagos, Mediterranean, Alaska, Northern Europe and British Islands

Silversea Cruises welcomed its passengers back in June, with the inaugural cruises of two newbuilds, the Silver Moon and the Silver Origin.

Continuing its restart plan, the luxury brand launched service in Iceland and Alaska, with two additional vessels.

After completing its first season in Iceland, the brand is now ready to add new itineraries in the Mediterranean, British Islands and Northern Europe.

Hapag-Lloyd CruisesStatus:Five ships in serviceShips:Europa 2, Europa, Hanseatic Nature, Hanseatic Inspiration and Hanseatic Spirit Region:Mediterranean and Northern Europe

Germany-based Hapag-Lloyd Cruises currently has all of its five-ship fleet in commercial operations. The luxury brand is presently offering several different itineraries in the Baltic, the Norwegian Fjords and the Mediterranean.

The new Hanseatic Spirit was the most recent addition to the active fleet. Recently delivered, the expedition vessel departed Hamburg on its inaugural cruise on August 26.

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Nearly 60% of the Royal Caribbean Group Cruise Fleet is Now Back in Service - Cruise Industry News

The islands making up the Caribbean may seem like far-off destinations, but in fact, many are a simple plane ride away from Houston.

The Caribbean is made up of hundreds of islands, with each country or territory made up of its own distinct culture, food, people and way of life. Below, we highlight locations in the Caribbean to which Houstonians can fly directly, as well as what the destination is known for and what to look for when considering which one is right for you.

Be sure to look up COVID-19 entry requirements on official tourism board websites before booking any trip. Keep in mind that some airlines only do direct flights to specific destinations on certain days.

Royal Plaza Mall, Oranjestad, Aruba on June 17, 2018.

United Airlines from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Queen Beatrix International Airport

Duration: 4 hours, 35 minutes

Just 15 miles north of the coast of Venezuela, Aruba is an independent country in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It has a population of approximately 100,000. The country is located south of the hurricane belt, which means that it rarely rains for extended periods. Arubas cuisine is made up of African, Spanish, French, Dutch, Indian and Chinese influences. There are a wide array of places to stay on the island, catering to many different styles of travel. An all-inclusive resort may appeal to vacationers, or one not including food for those who wish to explore the cuisine on their own.

Junkanoo Beach, which is within walking distance of the cruise terminal in Nassau, Bahamas, is empty during a cruise ships port of call.

United Airlines from IAH to Lynden Pindling International Airport

Duration: 3 hours

The Bahamas is made up of 16 islands, covering more than 100,000 square miles of crystal clear ocean. Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and is located in New Providence. Popular attractions include the downtown area, the Government House and Queens Staircase, commonly referred to as the 66 steps. It is located in the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex in Nassau. Hewn out of solid limestone rock by enslaved people between 1793 and 1794, it is said that it provided a direct route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau City.

Culture abounds in the Bahamas, from handmade batik to the Junkanoo beat. And dont forget the options around watersports and boating! For accommodations in Nassau, there is the world-famous Atlantis resort on nearby Paradise Island as well as Baha Mar, a sprawling complex featuring hotels, a golf course, swimming pools and the largest casino in the Caribbean.

Aerial view of Punta Cana, east of the Dominican Republic on April 16, 2015.

United Airlines from IAH to Punta Cana International Airport

Duration: 4 hours, 20 minutes

Located where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean, Punta Cana is known for offering relaxation, whether that be a much-needed massage or a round of golf. With 30 miles of white sand coastlines, visitors will have plenty of room to dip their toes into the destination. There arefamily-friendly resorts as well as more private properties for couples, even those looking for a destination wedding. Inland, there are ziplines and cave explorations for the more adventurous traveler.

A resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

United Airlines from IAH or Southwest Airlines from HOU to Sangster International Airport

Duration: 3 hours, 15 minutes

Montego Bay is the third most populous city in Jamaica. Its many adventure tours and eco-friendly activities include unique experiences such as a ride down the Martha Brae River in a hand-crafted bamboo raft. One can learn about the history and culture of the town at the Montego Bay Cultural Center. When it comes to accommodations, there is something for every traveler: all-inclusive resorts, villas and apartments.

Tourists on Aug. 3, 2021 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

United Airlines from IAH or Southwest from HOU to Luis Muoz Marn International Airport

Duration: 4 hours, 30 minutes

A U.S. territory with very strong Spanish influences due to its colonization over hundreds of years, Puerto Rico includes the main island and several smaller islands. San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and celebrates the 500th anniversary of its founding this year. Begin the trip with a stay in Old San Juans new Palacio Provincial Hotel, where youll be just steps away from centuries of history, including historic forts, a cathedral, a cemetery, and museums and galleries. Finish the trip sipping one of the many rum-inspired drinks at a beachfront property in Isla Verde, minutes away from the airport. For those looking for a more luxurious stay, consider Fairmont El San Juan Hotel for its spacious rooms and many pools.

BUCKET-LIST TRAVEL PLACE: Turks & Caicos

United Airlines from IAH to Providenciales International Airport

Flight will stop operating during September and October 2021 and return in November 2021

Duration: 3 hours, 45 minutes

The economic hub of Turks and Caicos, Providenciales is known for white-sand beaches, some of the clearest turquoise water seen around, lobster, conch shells and water activities.

Tourism is the British territory's top industry, and properties dot the island. From the luxe Grace Bay Club or Wymara Resort in the tourist-friendly Grace Bay Beach area to the more off-the-beaten path Harbour Club Villas & Marina, theres something for all types of travelers. For water enthusiasts, consider Big Blue Collective, which not only offers activities like paddle boarding, kayaking and excursions, but also takes a sustainable approach to them.

Providenciales, or Provo as many people call it, is also a great jumping off point to less populated islands like South Caicos and Grand Turk, which have a more rugged, island-style vibe.

Ritz Carlton St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.

United Airlines from IAH to Metropolitan Area Airport

Duration: 4 hours, 40 minutes

St. Thomas is jam-packed with activities and history, yet still retains the island atmosphere of the Caribbean. Aside from world-class diving, travelers can enjoy a well-regarded golf course, beautiful beaches and exciting nightlife.

For history or art enthusiasts, dont miss seeing the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, the circa-1680 Fort Christian, or the childhood home of Camille Pissarro, one of the best-known French Impressionists.

For eco-conscious travelers, the USVI has over 40 types of coral. There are a variety of eco-friendly accommodations, including eco-resorts and villas. Restaurants throughout the USVI also support farm-to-fork initiatives.

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Vacation time? Consider these direct routes from Houston to the Caribbean - Chron

Invest 99L is still a broad area of low pressure just south of Jamaica. Environmental conditions are mostly conducive for further development and a tropical depression or storm is expected to form later today or tonight as the system moves across the Caribbean. Air Force Reconnaissance aircraft is schedule to investigate the system this afternoon. The system is expected to enter the Gulf of Mexico Friday night.Besides Invest 99L, we are following a trough of low pressure over the central Atlantic well east of Bermuda that has a high chance of developing into a tropical system in the next 2 to 5 days.There is also a tropical wave over the central tropical Atlantic about 1000 miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands that has a medium chance of developing into a tropical system in the next few days. Locally, expect mostly cloudy and humid conditions along with high rain chances today and through the weekend. Scattered to numerous rain and storms could bring excessive rainfall to SELA and the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the next several days.Thursday: Invest 99L is headed for the Gulf. Locally, expect a mostly cloudy, hot and humid day with a 70% chance of rain and storms and afternoon temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s.Friday: A mostly cloudy and hot day with a 70% chance of rain and storms and afternoon temperatures in the mid 80s to low 90s.Saturday: A mostly cloudy and hot day with a 60 to 70% chance of rain and storms and afternoon temperatures in the mid 80s to low 90s.Sunday: A tropical system could be making landfall somewhere along the Louisiana coastline. Expect an overcast, windy and warm day with numerous showers and thunderstorms, power outages, flooding and afternoon temperatures in the mid 80s. Strong southerly winds could bring dangerous storm surge to SELA.Monday: A tropical system could be bringing numerous showers and thunderstorms, power outages, flooding and storm surge to SELA. Expect an overcast, warm and windy day with afternoon temperatures in the mid 80s.Tuesday: A mostly cloudy, warm, windy and humid day with a 60 to 70% chance of rain and storms and afternoon temperatures in the mid to upper 80s.Wednesday: A mostly cloudy, hot and breezy day with a 60% chance of rain and afternoon temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s.

Invest 99L is still a broad area of low pressure just south of Jamaica. Environmental conditions are mostly conducive for further development and a tropical depression or storm is expected to form later today or tonight as the system moves across the Caribbean. Air Force Reconnaissance aircraft is schedule to investigate the system this afternoon. The system is expected to enter the Gulf of Mexico Friday night.

Besides Invest 99L, we are following a trough of low pressure over the central Atlantic well east of Bermuda that has a high chance of developing into a tropical system in the next 2 to 5 days.

There is also a tropical wave over the central tropical Atlantic about 1000 miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands that has a medium chance of developing into a tropical system in the next few days.

Locally, expect mostly cloudy and humid conditions along with high rain chances today and through the weekend. Scattered to numerous rain and storms could bring excessive rainfall to SELA and the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the next several days.

Thursday: Invest 99L is headed for the Gulf. Locally, expect a mostly cloudy, hot and humid day with a 70% chance of rain and storms and afternoon temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s.

Friday: A mostly cloudy and hot day with a 70% chance of rain and storms and afternoon temperatures in the mid 80s to low 90s.

Saturday: A mostly cloudy and hot day with a 60 to 70% chance of rain and storms and afternoon temperatures in the mid 80s to low 90s.

Sunday: A tropical system could be making landfall somewhere along the Louisiana coastline. Expect an overcast, windy and warm day with numerous showers and thunderstorms, power outages, flooding and afternoon temperatures in the mid 80s. Strong southerly winds could bring dangerous storm surge to SELA.

Monday: A tropical system could be bringing numerous showers and thunderstorms, power outages, flooding and storm surge to SELA. Expect an overcast, warm and windy day with afternoon temperatures in the mid 80s.

Tuesday: A mostly cloudy, warm, windy and humid day with a 60 to 70% chance of rain and storms and afternoon temperatures in the mid to upper 80s.

Wednesday: A mostly cloudy, hot and breezy day with a 60% chance of rain and afternoon temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s.

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Watching the Caribbean - WDSU New Orleans

ORIGINAL STORY: A disturbance in the Caribbean Sea is expected to become a tropical depression or tropical storm later this week or over the weekend.

Its too soon to know if this storm will affect Houston, but forecasters urged area residents to be prepared.

FORECAST: This season's hurricane forecast from NOAA just got a little bit worse

Although track details remain highly uncertain, it is important for all to review hurricane preparedness plans and kits now, according to an email from the National Weather Services Houston/Galveston office. Also, please stay weather aware over the coming days as the forecast evolves.

According to the National Hurricane Centers 1 p.m. update, the system is expected to move over the northwestern Caribbean Sea and near or across the Yucatn Peninsula of Mexico on Friday. It could then move into the Gulf of Mexico this weekend, where conditions are expected to be favorable for additional development.

Regardless of this systems development, portions of Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, Belize and the Yucatn Peninsula could receive heavy rainfall and flooding through the weekend. The coasts of Louisiana, Texas and the Mexican state of Tamaulipas could see storm surge, wind and heavy rainfall late this weekend and early next week.

As of Wednesday afternoon, meteorologists were watching a disturbance in the Caribbean Sea. A tropical depression or tropical storm could form late this week or over the weekend. It is too soon to know if the Houston area will be affected.

Exactly where these impacts will occur will depend strongly on track and this remains highly uncertain since the system has yet to form, the National Weather Services Houston/Galveston office said.

There have been eight named storms in the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting 15 to 21 named storms this year. Between seven and 10 of those could become hurricanes and three to five could be major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher.

Wednesday marked the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Harvey making landfall in Texas, a storm that would bring catastrophic flooding to the Houston region.

This article has been updated with the correct date, Aug. 25, 2017, that Hurricane Harvey made landfall in Texas.

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Will a weather disturbance in the Caribbean Sea affect Houston? - Houston Chronicle

A state-of-the-art terminal is coming to Galveston in time for a (hopeful) return to serious cruising. Royal Caribbean International recently broke ground on a new, $125 million cruise terminal to serve as homeport for its award-winning Oasis Class ship, Allure of the Seas.

The techy new terminal is set to open by fall 2022, the company notes.

Those familiar with the cruise line will recognize Allure as one of the brands largest ships. The first of its kind to sail from Galveston, Allure will sail seven-night western Caribbean itineraries starting November 2022, per an announcement.

Royal Caribbean hopes to lure Allure guests with myriad entertainment options, including a zip line that flies across the ship 10 decks high, a pair of FlowRider surf simulators, dedicated spaces for kids and teens, entertainment across four stages air, ice, water and stage and the open-air AquaTheater.

Meanwhile, Houston and Texas cruise travelers concerned about the COVID uptick can take comfort. A Royal Caribbean spokesperson confirms to CultureMap that Galveston cruises are still on; four-day western Caribbean itineraries sailing in September 2021 can be found here.

As for the terminal, the facility will boast mobile check-in and facial recognition features to speed up guests arrival. Extra attention was paid to environmental concerns; the terminal is designed to meet global LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental) health, efficiency, and sustainability standards, a release notes.

Currently, Galveston, the sole cruise port in Texas, houses Royal Caribbeans Independence and Liberty of the Seas, which are the largest cruise ships homeported in the area.

This new cruise terminal is a game-changer, said Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO at the recent groundbreaking. This much-anticipated project will bring 800 new jobs, $1.4 billion in local business services revenue, $5.6 million in state and local taxes, and incredible business development opportunities.

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Royal Caribbean announces fall cruises and breaks ground on techy new Galveston terminal - CultureMap Houston

African swine fever killed 2,200 pigs in at least 24 outbreaks in the Dominican Republic this summer.

Another 200 pigs were culled in response to the outbreaks.

The infections are the first identified in the Western Hemisphere since 1984, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). The first outbreak began around July 1 and killed almost 800 pigs in the countrys northwest, and an OIE update published Aug. 8 indicates subsequent testing found infections back to April 10.

While further investigations are ongoing to determine how the virus entered the country, several measures are already in place to halt its further spread, an OIE announcement states.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed the presence of ASF virus in the Dominican Republic on July 27, and Dominican Republic authorities reported the results to the OIE on July 29, according to OIE and USDA information.

ASF can wipe out entire herds of domestic swine. The virus is highly contagious, and study results suggest the virus is hardy enough to remain viable for months in common feed ingredients, including those shipped across oceans.

U.S. veterinarians have warned for years that the virus could be devastating if it were to reach herds in the United States. The American Association of Swine Veterinarians, for example, has hosted lectures for years on ways veterinarians can identify and close any biosecurity gaps and lessons they can apply from ASF outbreaks in China.

ASF is found particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, according to the USDA. It emerged in the Caucasus in 2007, spread in subsequent years to countries in the European Union, and, starting in 2018, spread through China, Mongolia, Vietnam, and other countries in the region.

In response to ASF incursion in the Dominican Republic, OIE officials called for countries to strengthen their surveillance efforts. The OIE and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations also are providing regional support through a joint project to control transboundary animal diseases, and experts within that project called for countries to reinforce their border controls and implement the OIEs international standards on ASF risk mitigation, according to the OIE announcement.

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has numerous interlocking safeguards to keep ASF from entering the U.S., which already prohibits importation of swine products from the Dominican Republic over concerns about classical swine fever, an agency announcement states. But U.S. Customs and Border Protection is increasing inspections of travelers arriving from the Dominican Republic and will work to safely dispose of garbage from airplanes arriving from the country, the APHIS announcement states.

USDA is committed to assisting the Dominican Republic in dealing with ASF, is offering continued testing support, and will consult with them on additional steps or actions to support response and mitigation measures, the APHIS announcement states. We will also offer similar help to Haiti, which borders the Dominican Republic and is at high risk for ASF detections.

Dr. Chris Rademacher, a clinical professor of veterinary diagnostic and production animal medicine at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine and a member of the AASV board of directors, said that, if ASF reaches the U.S., including its territories, the loss of trade markets alone could cost pork producers at least $14 billion in the first two years. He noted that the virus is hardy and resilient, and it can remain viable in meat products that are cured but not fully cooked, in garbage arriving from airplanes or cruise ships, or on the clothing or shoes of people visiting countries with infections.

There is no vaccine against the virus nor effective treatment for infected pigs, Dr. Rademacher said. The risks in the U.S. include not only spread into domestic herds but also sustained spread of the virus among feral swine populations, and he noted the ongoing outbreaks of the disease among wild boar populations in Europe.

Dr. Rademacher said he is also concerned more countries in the Caribbean could have ASF infections that remain undiagnosed without adequate surveillance. He said the Dominican Republic alone had taken up APHIS officials on a 2019 offer to provide Caribbean countries with diagnostic testing for ASF, classical swine fever, and foot-and-mouth disease.

On Aug. 6, APHIS officials also announced immediate restrictions on importing dogs from countries with African swine fever. Importers now need to affirm dogs and shipping containers are free of dirt or other organic bedding; all bedding traveling with the dogs must be thrown away at certain post-entry concentration points; dogs must have International Organization for Standardization-compliant microchips, and those chips must be verified; and dogs must be bathed at the post-entry concentration points within two days of arrival in the U.S.

The number of dogs being imported for resale from ASF-affected countries is growing, and APHIS is taking this action to continue its efforts to protect the United States swine industry against this devastating disease, the announcement states.

ASF had been considered absent from the Caribbean since 1984, when the last infections were discovered in Haiti, OIE information states. The Dominican Republic had been free of the disease since 1981. Cuba is the only other Caribbean country with a history of ASF, and the disease has been absent there since 1980.

In the Americas, Brazil also once dealt with ASF among the countrys domestic pigs, but the country has been free of the disease since 1981.

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African swine fever reaches the Caribbean - American Veterinary Medical Association