96 Years Since Hurricane San Zenón Devastated the Dominican Republic

Tropical Storm Dolly is generating growing concern across the Dutch Caribbean islands of Sint Maarten, Saba, and Sint Eustatius as the storm tracks toward the region. Authorities and residents are monitoring the storm's path closely, with local emergency management officials urging preparedness measures. The three islands, which are special municipalities of the Netherlands, are particularly vulnerable given their small size and limited resources for disaster response. Sint Maarten, which suffered catastrophic damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017, is especially sensitive to any approaching tropical weather systems. Residents are being advised to secure property, stock up on essential supplies, and stay informed through official channels. The storm's intensity and exact track will determine the level of impact, and forecasters are continuing to update their projections. Dutch and local authorities are on standby to coordinate emergency response if conditions deteriorate.

All schools in Sint Maarten will remain closed on Monday, August 31, due to hazardous weather conditions stemming from the remnants of Tropical Storm Dolly, now downgraded to a tropical wave. The Sint Maarten Meteorological Department (MDS) warned that the atmosphere will remain sufficiently moist and unstable to produce heavy cloud cover, showers, and thunderstorms across the region. The closure was announced as a precautionary measure to protect students and staff during the unsettled weather. Residents across Sint Maarten are advised to take precautions as the tropical wave continues to influence local weather conditions. The situation reflects the broader impact of Dolly's remnants on the northeastern Caribbean, even after the system weakened from a named storm. Parents and guardians are expected to make alternative arrangements for childcare on the affected day. Authorities have not yet indicated whether the closures will extend beyond Monday.

St. Maarten's Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure (VROMI), Patrice Gumbs, confirmed that the Great Bay basin is equipped and ready for improved flood management ahead of Tropical Storm Dolly. The minister personally conducted a field inspection and live test of newly installed stormwater pumps to verify their operational readiness. The test was designed to assess the speed and effectiveness of the pumps in managing potential floodwaters. The Great Bay basin has historically been a vulnerable area during heavy rainfall and storm events, making this infrastructure upgrade a critical step for the island's resilience. The confirmation comes as St. Maarten monitors the approach of Dolly, underscoring the government's effort to demonstrate preparedness before the storm's potential impact. The installation of these stormwater pumps represents a tangible infrastructure investment aimed at reducing flood risk for residents and businesses in the Philipsburg area.