Statement by the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS)
Delivered by the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunication (TEATT)
23 March 2026

PHILIPSBURG:--- Today, March 23, we join the global community in celebrating World Meteorological Day, under the theme “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow.”

This annual observance commemorates the establishment of the World Meteorological Organization and highlights the vital role that meteorological services play in protecting lives, supporting economies, and strengthening resilience around the world.

The 2026 theme highlights the importance of weather and climate observations. Whether taken from satellites, weather balloons, ocean buoys, or ground-based instruments, these observations form the foundation of modern forecasting and early warning systems. They allow governments, businesses, and communities to anticipate extreme weather, reduce risks, and make informed decisions that protect lives, infrastructure, and economic activity.

For St. Maarten, these services are very important. As a small island located along the hurricane belt, we face risks from tropical storms, hurricanes, heavy rainfall, extreme heat, and coastal hazards. Reliable weather information is therefore not only essential for public safety, but also for protecting key economic sectors such as tourism, aviation, maritime transport, and national infrastructure.

In support of the global Early Warnings for All initiative, the Meteorological Department of
St. Maarten continues to strengthen its observation and forecasting capabilities. Our goal is to ensure that by 2027, every person on the island is protected by effective early warning systems. Early warnings remain one of the most powerful tools for reducing disaster risk, protecting national investments, and minimizing economic losses caused by severe weather events.

 At present, we rely primarily on data collected at Princess Juliana International Airport. We are aware that weather conditions can vary across the island. To address this gap, the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten has begun the process to expand our national weather observation network across the island. This includes the installation of:

• Five new Automatic Weather Stations
  • Two additional rain gauges
  • Three air quality monitors
  • One sea level gauge

This investment represents an important step toward closing weather and climate data gaps and strengthening St. Maarten’s national observation capacity. By expanding the observation network across the island, the Meteorological Department will provide data that will enhance global models and forecasting capabilities, resulting in a more robust and effective early warning system.

Equally important are the economic benefits this improved monitoring network will provide. Tourism, one of the pillars of St. Maarten’s economy, depends heavily on reliable weather information. More comprehensive island-wide data will help hotels, marine operators, cruise-related services, and tourism businesses plan operations more effectively and reduce weather-related disruptions.

Aviation operations at Princess Juliana International Airport will benefit from improved weather monitoring and forecasting, supporting safer and more efficient flight operations and helping maintain the reliability of one of the Caribbean’s key aviation hubs.

Enhanced weather data will also support the transport and maritime sectors, allowing port operations, marine operators, and fishermen to better plan their activities and manage weather-related risks.

For infrastructure development and construction, improved climate and weather data will help guide the design of stronger, more climate-resilient buildings, roads, and telecommunications infrastructure, protecting national investments and supporting sustainable economic development.

The insurance sector will also benefit from richer historical weather data across the island, improving risk assessments and financial planning for weather-related hazards.

In addition, the introduction of air quality monitoring stations represents an important advancement for environmental monitoring and public health. Saharan dust events, local emissions, and post-storm conditions can affect air quality and respiratory health. Real-time monitoring will help provide timely public guidance and improve understanding of air quality conditions across our communities.

Finally, the installation of our first sea level gauge will strengthen our ability to monitor coastal hazards. As global sea levels continue to rise and storm surge risks increase, continuous sea-level observations will support coastal management, guide responsible development, and inform long-term planning for climate resilience.

On this World Meteorological Day, we recognize and thank the dedicated meteorologists, technicians, observers, and support staff of the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten. Their continuous monitoring of our atmosphere and their commitment to public service ensure that our nation receives timely forecasts and warnings that help protect lives and support our economy every single day.

The Government of Sint Maarten remains committed to strengthening national resilience, protecting our economy, and investing in the systems that safeguard our people and our future.

Together, through science, observation, and cooperation, we are building a stronger and more resilient St. Maarten.

By observing today, we are protecting tomorrow.

Happy World Meteorological Day.

Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS)
23 March 2026

CAY HILL:---  The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) has completed its clinic client evaluation, a client satisfaction survey conducted among individuals receiving care at our Foundation’s outpatient clinic. The initiative forms part of MHF’s ongoing commitment to its mission of “providing efficient, client-centred and quality mental health care to the satisfaction of our clients.”

The survey was carried out during the first two months of 2026 and was completed by clients aged 18 to 60, with most respondents in the 31 to 45 age group. The participants provided their opinions on their treatment from 2025 to 2026.

The evaluation consisted of 10 straightforward questions in which clients rated their experience on a scale from 1 to 5. In addition to the rating questions, clients were also invited to share written feedback about what they value most about the clinic and where they believe improvements could be made.

According to the results, clients overwhelmingly highlighted several strengths within the clinic’s services.

“Feeling heard and understood” emerged as one of the most valued aspects of care. Many clients described the importance of having “a listening ear,” noting that staff take the time to listen attentively and engage in open conversations about their concerns.

Clients also emphasized the kindness, respect, and friendliness of staff, frequently describing the clinic’s team as caring, professional, and welcoming. Feeling treated with dignity and compassion was identified as a key part of the care experience.

Another theme that stood out was personalized and responsive care. Respondents expressed appreciation when treatment is tailored to their individual needs, when staff clearly explain their situation, and when adjustments are made to accommodate personal circumstances.

Clients also highlighted therapists' professionalism and accessibility as a strong point. Many noted the knowledge and competence of therapists, timely access to medication, clear communication, and responsiveness from the clinic’s team.

Several clients shared that they had experienced positive personal changes as a result of their treatment. Some described feeling better, experiencing personal growth, or finally feeling able to “breathe and be themselves,” reflecting the meaningful impact of the support they receive.

In addition to positive feedback, clients were encouraged to offer suggestions for improvement. The feedback provided valuable insights and identified several areas for continued development.

Suggestions included improving clarity in the treatment plan, interest in expanded accessibility outside the main building of MHF, organizational, and additional facility improvements.

Overall, the feedback reflected a strong appreciation for the compassionate and professional care provided by MHF. Many respondents indicated that they were satisfied with the services and felt supported throughout their treatment.

“This survey was carried out because listening to our clients is essential to delivering meaningful mental health care,” said Medical Director, Dr. Hendrikus van Gaalen. “Their experiences and perspectives help us understand what we are doing well and where we can continue to improve. While complaints do occasionally occur, they offer important insights that help us to optimize the quality of our care.”

The Mental Health Foundation will continue to conduct the clinic client evaluation annually, reinforcing one of our core values of client-centered care by ensuring that treatment plans are developed collaboratively, with clients and their care providers working together to identify priorities and agree on the path forward, alongside implementing other key improvements across our services.

PHILIPSBURG:---  The St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation is proud to announce that SXM Tech Tides, the island’s first robotics team to compete at a regional level, has achieved an impressive 2nd place finish among teams from eight countries at the OECSRA (now ECRIA) Super Regional Robotics Challenge, held in St. Kitts, earning both the Code Mastery Award and the Digital Engagement Award.

Students Jacob Boxshall of Learning Unlimited Preparatory School and Akash Pillai of St. Maarten Academy represented the 10-member team and delivered an outstanding performance on the regional stage.

Their robot, the Soualiga Seaside Sweeper (SSS-37), was purpose-built to address real-world environmental challenges. The robot features a dual-motor drive system for mobility, an extendable arm, and a servo-powered intake mechanism, similar to a street sweeper, designed to efficiently collect debris. The system is powered by a central battery and operated via remote control.

This achievement is particularly remarkable given that many competing teams had years of REV Robotics experience, while the St. Maarten team had only a few weeks to prepare. Under the guidance of coaches Mr. Julian Mason and Mr. Conlan King, the students demonstrated exceptional dedication, teamwork, and innovation.

“This milestone reflects the potential of our youth and the importance of investing in STEAM and robotics education on the island,” said Dr. Rolinda Carter, President of the St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation. “To place second out of eight countries in our first regional appearance is an achievement the entire island can be proud of.”

This accomplishment marks an important step in the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to formalize and expand robotics and innovation initiatives in St. Maarten.

The team’s participation in the regional robotics challenge was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten.

The St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation remains committed to inspiring a passion for STEAM and robotics, empowering students to innovate, collaborate, and represent the island on regional and international stages.

The team returned home on Saturday, March 21, 2026, where they were warmly welcomed by the Honourable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports, Ms. Melissa Gumbs, along with board members of the St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation, family members, school representatives, and peers.

For more information and updates, follow the St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SXMSCIENCEFAIR
Instagram: @sxm_sciencefairfoundation

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is currently investigating a fatal traffic accident that occurred on Welfare Road late Saturday afternoon, March 21, 2026.

Just before 5:00 PM, Central Dispatch received multiple calls reporting a serious accident involving a scooter rider. Preliminary information indicates that the rider was traveling on Welfare Road from the airport toward the Kruithof Roundabout.

 While overtaking several vehicles, the scooter rider collided with a bus parked along the roadside.

Police patrols and ambulance personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, emergency responders provided medical assistance to the victim.

 Despite their efforts, it was later confirmed that the scooter rider succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

The Traffic Department is currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

KPSM extends its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased.

Further information will be provided as it becomes available.