PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Service (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), is advising residents and visitors, particularly those with respiratory illnesses, to take precautionary measures during periods of increased Saharan dust activity.
During this time of year, Saharan dust plumes become more prevalent across the Caribbean region and can affect air quality in Sint Maarten.
These dust events can pose health risks, especially for small children, older adults, and individuals with underlying respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
Persons living with asthma, allergies, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other breathing-related illnesses may experience worsening symptoms when Saharan dust concentrations are elevated. Common symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, throat irritation, eye irritation, and allergic reactions.
CPS encourages the public to stay informed by monitoring daily weather updates and advisories issued by the Sint Maarten Meteorological Department (MDS).
Information regarding the movement and expected impact of Saharan dust plumes can be obtained by visiting the MDS website at meteosxm.com or through its Facebook page at facebook.com/sxmweather.
To reduce exposure to Saharan dust particles, CPS recommends the following precautionary measures:
• Stay indoors as much as possible when dust concentrations are high;
• When outdoors, wear a properly fitted protective mask, such as a KN95 mask;
• Use a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter indoors to help improve air quality within homes and workplaces;
• Individuals who use medications for asthma or other pulmonary conditions should carry their medications at all times and use them as prescribed by their healthcare provider;
• Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing significant breathing difficulties or worsening respiratory symptoms;
• For less severe symptoms, allergy medications such as antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays may provide relief. Persons should consult their physician or pharmacist regarding appropriate treatment options.
CPS reminds the community that taking preventive measures during Saharan dust events can help reduce health complications and improve overall well-being.
Persons with chronic medical conditions are urged to remain vigilant and to follow the advice of their healthcare providers.
The Collective Prevention Service will continue to monitor public health concerns associated with seasonal environmental conditions and encourage the public to stay informed through official government and meteorological information channels.
Members of the CKAIR Committee of Parliament to participate in Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultations (IPKO) and Tripartite hosted in the Netherlands.
PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten – From June 5 to 8, 2026, delegations from the Parliaments of the Netherlands, Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten, will be meeting in The Hague, for the Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultations (IPKO).
The Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultations is a biannual meeting of parliamentary representatives from the four countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Hosted alternately in the Caribbean and in the Netherlands, the consultations provide an opportunity for parliamentary dialogue and the discussion of matters of common interest within the Kingdom.
The four parliamentary delegations will be discussing several topics that include discussions and presentations on:
Recent developments per country; follow-up discussion on the agreements list adopted during the February 2026 IPKO held in Aruba; a panel discussion and follow-up discussions on cooperation within the Inter-Parliamentary Kingdom Consultation (IPKO) and the Kingdom of the Netherlands; discussion on climate adaptation, including a presentation by the National Climate Citizens' Assembly of the Netherlands. The IPKO program will also include a working visit focused on the impact of an aging population on elderly care and potential solutions.
The Interparliamentary Consultations will conclude on Monday, June 8, 2026, with the signing of the agreement list and a joint press conference of the four delegations.
Prior to the start of the Interparliamentary Consultations (IPKO), the delegations of the Parliaments of Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten will meet in a Tripartite Consultation. During this meeting, the delegations will discuss specific issues affecting these countries.
The Sint Maarten delegation participating in the IPKO consultations consists of the following members:
• Mrs. Sarah A. Wescot-Williams, President of Parliament & Delegation Leader;
• Ms. Sjamira D.M. Roseburg, LL.M., Chairlady of the Committee of Kingdom Affairs and Interparliamentary Relations (CKAIR);
• Mr. Viren V. Kotai;
• Mr. Egbert J. Doran;
• Mr. Omar E.C. Ottley;
• Mr. Lyndon C.J. Lewis; and
• Mr. Garrick J. Richardson, LL.M., ML, Secretary General.
ODM Urges Food Wholesalers and Warehouse Operators to be Storm Ready.
PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) is urging food wholesalers, warehouse depot operators, and business owners across the country to ensure their facilities are hurricane-ready for the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season as it only takes one hurricane to make it a bad one.
With the hurricane season now underway and storm activity expected to increase in the coming months, ODM emphasizes that the best time to prepare is before a storm threatens the country.
National Disaster Coordinator and Fire Chief Clive Richardson is calling on operators and owners of warehouses, distribution centers, and storage facilities to review and activate preparedness measures well in advance of any approaching weather system.
"A key part of hurricane preparedness is understanding the hazards that can affect your business and taking the necessary steps to reduce risks before a storm arrives," Richardson stated. "Every business including new businesses that just recently opened their doors should have contingency plans in place to secure its operations, protect employees, and minimize potential damage to property and surrounding communities."
ODM is reminding business owners and newly established ones that loose materials commonly found around warehouses and storage facilities can become dangerous projectiles during high winds. Items such as plywood sheets, shipping pallets, food pallets, metal strapping, and other unsecured materials can easily become airborne and cause significant damage to buildings, vehicles, and neighboring properties.
Business operators are therefore encouraged to conduct inspections of their facilities and surrounding areas and develop plans that allow for the rapid removal or securing of materials whenever a tropical storm or hurricane threat is forecast for Sint Maarten.
Every effort should be made to keep storage yards and warehouse surroundings free of loose debris and unsecured materials that could pose a threat during severe weather conditions. Property owners should ensure that all hurricane preparedness measures can be implemented within a short period of time when necessary.
ODM also encourages households and businesses alike to review their hurricane preparedness plans and identify any weaknesses that need to be addressed while there is still sufficient time to prepare. The peak of the Atlantic Hurricane Season typically begins in mid-August and continues through October.
"The primary objective is the protection of lives first and foremost, followed by the protection of property and surrounding residential communities," Richardson emphasized.
ODM reminds all businesses that when a Tropical Storm Watch or Hurricane Watch is issued—typically 48 hours before the expected impact of a weather system—business continuity and hurricane preparedness plans should be immediately activated. Timely action during this period can significantly reduce risks and improve resilience.
The Office of Disaster Management will continue to provide preparedness information throughout the hurricane season and encourages all sectors of the community to remain vigilant, informed, and prepared.
The community is urged to learn more about hurricane hazards and resources you need on how to prepare your family, home, or business for a storm/hurricane strike by visiting the Government website: www.sintmaartengov.org/hurricane where you will be able to download your “Hurricane Season Readiness Guide’ and “Hurricane Tracking Chart.” The information here is also valuable for new residents.
Listen to the Government Radio station SXMGOV – 107.9FM - for official information and news before, during and after a hurricane. You can also follow weather related news and information as well as national addresses by the Prime Minister, chairperson of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) by going to @SXMGOV Facebook Page.
For official weather-related information, check out the website of the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS): www.meteosxm.com or visit their social media page Facebook.com/sxmweather/
Attempted Jewelry Store Robbery in Maho Sparks Island-Wide Police Investigation.
MAHO, Sint Maarten:--- Police are investigating an attempted armed robbery at the Radisson Jewelry store in Maho on Tuesday afternoon, June 2, after a group of suspects reportedly tried and failed to carry out a heist before fleeing the scene.
According to the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM), the incident occurred shortly after 2:00 p.m. when Central Dispatch received multiple emergency calls reporting an attempted robbery at the popular jewelry establishment located in the Maho area.
Police patrol units and detectives responded immediately, secured the scene, and launched an investigation into the incident.
Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects arrived on three to four scooters and were dressed in dark clothing. The group allegedly attempted to rob the Radisson jewelry store but was unsuccessful in executing the robbery.
Following the failed attempt, the suspects fled the area at high speed and crossed into the French side of the island through the Cupe Coy border, prompting investigators to pursue several leads.
Detectives are actively working to identify and locate those involved. Authorities have not yet released descriptions of the suspects beyond their clothing and mode of transportation.
The incident caused concern among business owners and visitors in the busy Maho district, one of the island’s most frequented commercial and tourist areas.
KPSM is appealing to the public for assistance and urges anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have information relevant to the investigation to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Police Force of Sint Maarten at +1 (721) 554-2222 or provide information anonymously through the Tip Line at 9300.
The investigation remains ongoing.
KPSM Seeks Public Assistance in Locating Missing Teenager.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is requesting the public's assistance in locating a missing teenager, Kyshynis Raisheena KENEPA, a 16-year-old female.
Kyshynis is described as having a light brown complexion and black hair. She was last seen in the vicinity of Robbie's Lottery on L.B. Scott Road on Sunday, May 31, 2026.
KPSM is concerned for her well-being and asks anyone with information on her whereabouts to immediately contact the Philipsburg Police Station at +1 (721) 542-2222. Information can also be provided through the police emergency number 911.
The community's cooperation is essential to locating this young lady and ensuring her safe return.
Message to Kyshynis Raisheena KENEPA:
If you are seeing this message, please contact the Police Station or your mother as soon as possible so that your family and the authorities can be assured of your safety and well-being.
KPSM thanks the public for its assistance and cooperation in this matter.