Virtual Island Summit: The USVI’s Gov. Albert Bryan is set to join an international Virtual Island Summit returning for its eighth edition, with a Sept. 15 start and a focus on how island communities adapt to shifting conditions. St. Croix Weather: Saharan dust has cleared, but a Heat Advisory is in effect for St. Croix and St. Thomas (heat index over 105°F), with brief showers possible and fire danger staying high due to critically dry conditions. USVI Sports: The territory’s women’s softball team earned a silver medal at the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games after the gold-medal game was postponed and then cancelled because heavy rain and wind left the field unplayable. Cruise Growth: New CTO data shows the USVI is the fastest-growing Caribbean cruise destination in the first quarter, with cruise passenger arrivals up 68% year over year. Drought Watch: A developing drought in Puerto Rico and the USVI could hit tourism and raise costs for water systems, with conditions expected to persist for months. Sargassum Alert: Seaweed “sargassum” is being reported as self-sustaining and spreading across the Caribbean and Gulf, raising concerns for beaches, marine life, and visitor experience. Hotel News: Preferred Hotels & Resorts adds The Botany in St. Thomas (20 villa-style accommodations) to its L.V.X. Collection ahead of its winter debut. St. Thomas Cruise Port Upgrade: WICO is moving ahead with a dredging project to improve channel depth and turning basin access for larger cruise ships. Paradise Jam Travel: Multiple college teams are confirmed for the 2026 Paradise Jam in St. Thomas (Nov. 26–28), including Air Force and Tennessee Tech, with fan packages tied to local hotels. Beach Buzz: Trunk Bay in St. John is being highlighted in global “best beach” rankings, reinforcing the USVI’s top-tier beach draw.