The countries had agreed the pause in output hikes for the first quarter in November
International News via Reuters:
Eight OPEC+ countries have agreed in principle to maintain a planned pause in their oil output hikes for March, according to three OPEC+ sources and a draft statement seen by Reuters ahead of their Sunday meeting.
The countries had agreed the pause in output hikes for the first quarter in November. The formal meeting is now scheduled for 1400 GMT, two of the sources said.
Reporting by Olesya Astakhova, Ahmad Ghaddar and Alex Lawler; Editing by Alexander Smith
Everton Women finally ignited their season at Goodison Park on Sunday as a dramatic late header from Martina Fernández secured a vital 2-1 victory over Aston Villa. The result provides a much-needed boost for the Toffees but heaps further pressure on Villa’s interim manager and Bermudian legend Shaun Goater, whose side has managed just a single win in their opening ten league outings.
The visitors had initially silenced the home crowd after just 13 minutes when Ebony Salmon pounced on a defensive lapse to slot past Courtney Brosnan. However, Everton responded before the break when Fernández ghosted in to meet a Ruby Mace corner. While Villa controlled much of the second period, they could not find a way past a resolute Brosnan, and Fernández made them pay in the 89th minute by nodding home the winner.
Across the leagues, it was a testing afternoon for Bermuda’s coaching contingent. Dashun Cooper watched his Queens Park Rangers side fall 3-2 in a frantic encounter at Norwich City, while Chelsea Harvey saw Cambridge United succumb to a 3-0 defeat against a clinical Chatham Town.
The fortunes of Bermuda’s overseas players were equally varied. Eva Frazzoni helped AFC Sudbury secure a resilient 3-3 draw at Luton Town, providing a crucial point in their battle for fourth-tier stability. Elsewhere, Jasmine Spence enjoyed a stellar afternoon as Newport Pagnell Town cruised to a 4-0 win over Thrapston FC.
However, there was heartbreak for Keunna Dill and Trinae Edwards as FC United of Manchester surrendered a first-half lead to lose 2-1 against Crewe Alexandra. Meanwhile, Aaliyah Nolan and Bradford City faced a difficult trip north, suffering a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Thornaby FC.
Public input sought on long-term plan for the preservation, enhancement, and sustainable use of Admiralty House Park
The Ministry of Public Works and Environment is inviting members of the public to review and provide feedback on the Draft Admiralty House Park Management Plan, which sets out a long-term vision for the preservation, enhancement, and sustainable use of one of Bermuda’s most cherished coastal parks.
The draft plan marks an important step in setting a clear direction for the future of Admiralty House by identifying practical, achievable improvements while ensuring the park’s natural, historic, and recreational value is protected.
The public consultation is open until Friday, 13 February 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to review the plan and submit comments online at forum.gov.bm. Written feedback may also be submitted via the drop box at the Department of Parks’ office on the ground floor of Global House, 43 Church Street, Hamilton.
Admiralty House Park is a 16.36-acre government reserve and protected area under the Bermuda National Parks Act 1986. Known for its dramatic coastline, historic structures, tunnels, and recreational facilities, it is enjoyed year-round by residents and visitors alike.
The Management Plan provides a structured framework to guide future care and improvement of the park. It balances conservation and heritage preservation with measured upgrades that enhance safety, accessibility, and the overall visitor experience over time.
Minister of Public Works and Environment, the Hon. Jaché Adams, JP, MP, said: “Admiralty House is a place that many people feel connected to, and this plan is about ensuring it continues to serve the public well into the future.
“By setting out clear priorities and a long-term approach, the plan allows improvements to be considered carefully, transparently, and in line with the character of the park. Public input will help ensure that future enhancements reflect how people actually use and value this space.”
The draft plan highlights priorities such as restoring native vegetation, managing invasive species, improving pathways and signage, enhancing safety features, strengthening heritage interpretation, and increasing resilience to coastal erosion and extreme weather.
Feedback received during the consultation will help shape the final plan and inform future planning and investment decisions for Admiralty House Park.
As of midday, just under 1,000 customers remain without power, with the largest outage currently in the west end
Image: Shared on social media from the Beacon Hill area in Sandys.
BELCO Power Restoration Update #2
Bermuda Electric Light Company (BELCO) Managing Director Shelly Leman today provided an update on power restoration efforts following the low-pressure system currently affecting the island.
Ms. Leman said: “As of noon on Sunday February 1st, BELCO had just under 1000 customers without power with the largest area currently in Sandys as a result of a burnt-up pole. BELCO crews remain active and responding to pockets of outages across the island. Crews will continue to operate as long as conditions remain safe to do so with further periods of higher winds expected later this afternoon.”
Residents are asked to please ensure that any debris that could become airborne is secured safely at their homes or properties.
Ms. Leman said: “Last night BELCO crews removed a trampoline that became airborne and entangled in a section of our overhead wires near Dolly’s Bay in St. David’s.”
BELCO’s 955 number for reporting outages is now working and customers can call to report outages. Ms. Leman advised that residents should call BELCO and emergency services should they encounter a pole fire or sparking lines.
Ms. Leman added: “I would like to thank our crews who were out working late last night until 2:00 AM under extremely challenging conditions. Our crews will continue working today until all customers have had their power restored. I urge everyone to stay safe and thank you for your patience as we work to restore power.”
BELCO encourages all customers to follow the Company’s social media channels or visit belco.bm for the latest updates on restoration progress.
Hamilton, Bermuda January 28, 2026 — Bermuda will once again spotlight wellness, value and extraordinary visitor experiences with the return of Bermuda Spa Month, taking place 1–28 February 2026. The month-long initiative invites travellers to experience the island through relaxation, restoration and connection, while supporting winter travel demand and highlighting Bermuda’s diverse spa and wellness sector.
Responding to the continued global growth in wellness travel, Bermuda Spa Month features up to 50% off spa treatments at fifteen participating properties island-wide, alongside the introduction of Signature Spa Month Experiences created exclusively for the programme. Together, these offerings position Bermuda as a compelling and accessible wellness destination during the winter season, particularly for travellers from nearby North-eastern markets.
“Bermuda Spa Month is part of our broader mission to ensure the visitor experience is truly extraordinary,” said Jasmine Furbert, Director of Visitor Experience. “By working closely with our spa and wellness partners, we are adding meaningful value to the experiences offered across the island while encouraging visitors to explore, connect and create lasting memories.”
February in Bermuda offers a quieter pace and an ideal setting for rest and rejuvenation. Spa Month builds on this atmosphere, focusing on thoughtful experiences, personalised service and opportunities to slow down and reconnect — without the need for long-haul travel.
Signature Spa Month Experiences
New for 2026, Signature Spa Month Experiences elevate the programme beyond traditional spa treatments, offering immersive wellness journeys designed exclusively for Spa Month. These curated experiences cater to solo travellers, couples and groups of friends, blending movement, mindfulness, spa therapies and social connection. A flagship offering is a limited-edition full-day retreat hosted by The Retreat House, Bermuda’s only dedicated retreat experience. The thoughtfully curated day runs from 10:00am to 6:30pm and includes grounding yoga, a guided welcome circle, ocean-view dining, access to spa amenities, a restorative massage, optional indulgences such as pedicures, and a closing sound bath designed to leave participants feeling deeply restored and connected.
Additional Signature Experiences throughout February include couples’ retreats, Galentine’s-themed self-care events, wellness workshops and half-day spa journeys hosted by leading resort and boutique spa partners across the island.
Spa Month Passport: An Added Value for Visitors
As part of Bermuda Spa Month’s commitment to delivering extraordinary visitor experiences, the programme introduces the Spa Month Passport — a value-added enhancement designed to elevate wellness holidays in Bermuda.
The passport encourages visitors to explore a range of participating spas across the island while enjoying official Spa Month treatments. After completing three spa visits, guests may redeem their passport for a complimentary Bermuda-branded gift bag, courtesy of the Bermuda Tourism Authority.
By offering this added incentive to visitors, Bermuda Spa Month supports deeper exploration of the island’s wellness offerings while adding meaningful value to the experiences provided by Bermuda’s spa sector. Spa Month treatment offers remain available island-wide throughout February, supporting both residents and visitors alike.
Passports are limited, available on a first-come, first-served basis, and valid 1–28 February 2026. Passports may be collected at Bermuda Visitor Service Centres.
Participating spas include luxury resort spas, boutique wellness studios and medical spas, offering treatments ranging from massages and facials to detox therapies, thermal experiences and holistic rituals. For additional information on Spa Month and experience booking go to: https://www.gotobermuda.com/event/bermuda-spa-month
Participating Spa & Wellness Partners
· Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa
· Coral Beach and Tennis Club
· Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa
· Hamilton Princess – Exhale Spa
· Lacquered Lounge
· Newstead Spa by Three Graces
· Oasis Spa Ltd.
· Rosewood Bermuda
· Siam Spa
· Sisley Spa at The Loren at Pink Beach
· Spa Del Sol Bermuda
· SpaMedica at Northshore Medical & Aesthetics Centre
· The Reefs Resort & Club
· The Retreat House
· The St. Regis Bermuda Spa (Additional partners may be announced)
Abbreviated Overview of Spa Month Offers
· Full-body and therapeutic massages
· Signature and express facials
· Detox and body treatments · Sauna, steam and thermal experiences
· Couples and social wellness experiences
· Medical aesthetics and advanced skincare treatments
Bermuda Spa Month is a winter wellness initiative designed to elevate the visitor experience, support Bermuda’s spa sector and inspire travel through value-driven, thoughtfully curated experiences that celebrate rest, renewal and connection. For more information, visit www.gotobermuda.com.
Nonprofit Alliance of Bermuda Third Sector Spotlight
When Bermuda College opened in 1974, it became more than an institution—it became a promise of affordable, high-quality education and career development opportunities for all Bermudians. That promise has shaped thousands of lives, strengthened our workforce, developed leaders in every industry, and fueled Bermuda’s progress. Today, that mission is more critical than ever.
Education is the cornerstone of economic growth, innovation, and social mobility. It equips individuals with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world and empowers communities to adapt and prosper.
While government funding remains vital, modern education demands – advanced technology, upgraded facilities, and innovative programmes – required additional resources. Without supplemental support and sustainable funding, Bermuda College risks falling behind global standards and failing to meet the evolving needs of today’s learners and tomorrow’s workforce.
We are proud of our impact to date. Established in 2019, the Foundation exists to secure successful philanthropic partnerships that strengthen Bermuda College and ensure its long-term success. Our mission is simple but powerful: to mobilise community investment so that Bermuda’s only post-secondary institution can thrive—not just today, but for generations to come.
Since inception, the Foundation has raised over $11 million, funding critical initiatives that have transformed Bermuda College’s campus and enhanced student experiences, including:
Student Financial Assistance:750+ awards provided valued at nearly $1 million, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to education.
Campus Modernisation: The Athene Career Development Centre (including new classroom, computer lab, and Aspen Innovation Centre and Lecture Theatre), campus-wide IT infrastructure upgrades, fully renovated classrooms and computer labs, and new learning and meeting spaces like the Butterfield & Vallis Conference Centre.
Programme Enhancements: Investments in all areas of technical education, nursing simulators, and innovative programmes such as aquaponics.
Sustainability Projects: Solar energy systems and campus-wide LED retrofits that reduce costs and environmental impact.
In 2024–2025 90 students graduated with associate degrees and 296 professionals advanced careers through specialised training. Fall 2025 saw enrolment increase 5%, reflecting lives changed and futures built.
Student Government Rep, Callahj Simons, recently shared the difference of learning in the updated classrooms, “In the older classroom, I receive the traditional lectures, relying on the lecturer’s elaboration and presentation slides that are available subsequent to the close of a chapter. In the other room, the lecturer has the resources to elaborate and present slides simultaneously. What is illustrated here is the significance of the advancements that have been made with the help of every donor present this afternoon as your continued assistance ensures that every learner can be accommodated here at the Bermuda College.”
Consider the young Bermudian, supported by student financial assistance, completing her nursing certification and going on to work in Bermuda’s healthcare sector. Or the Bermudian student who earned an associate degree in information technology and secured a job in cybersecurity—a field critical to Bermuda’s digital future. These success stories are the heartbeat of Bermuda College Foundation’s work.
Our vision is in action! We are committed to ensuring Bermuda has a fully funded, state-of-the-art Bermuda College that prepares students for global opportunities while driving Bermuda’s economic and social progress. Imagine a Bermuda where every student has the tools to succeed, where innovation thrives, and where education fuels a vibrant economy. That is the future we are building.
The success of Bermuda College—and by extension, Bermuda’s future—depends on the entire community. Every donation, partnership, and act of support brings us closer to a thriving Bermuda where education is the engine of opportunity.
Here’s how you can help:
Donate: Every contribution, large or small, makes a difference.
Partner: Businesses can invest in workforce development by supporting programmes and offering internships that align with industry needs.
Advocate: Share our mission. Encourage others to see education as the foundation of Bermuda’s success.
Education is not an expense—it is an investment. An investment in people, in progress, and in possibility. Bermuda College Foundation is proud to lead this effort, but the real power lies in our community coming together to make it happen. Join us for a campus tour – experience our vision in action and discover the resources the College offers our entire community.
Join us. Invest in Bermuda’s future. Learn more at www.bermudacollegefoundation.org.
The utility says its 955 number is temporarily out of service and that emergency services should be contacted in the event of a pole fire
File image.
BELCO Power Restoration Update #1
BELCO Managing Director Shelly Leman said “Bermuda Electric Light Company (BELCO) is providing an update on power restoration efforts following the low pressure system currently affecting the island. Gale force winds continue to impact Bermuda, and approximately 3,000 customers are currently without power. The areas most affected are Pembroke, Paget, Hamilton Parish and St. Georges.
BELCO crews were out until 2:00 AM working to restore power, and teams were back in the field at first light this morning. The gale force winds associated with the low pressure system have caused impacts to overhead power lines and infrastructure across the island, with significant vegetation blown into power lines contributing to the large number of outages. BELCO will have teams out throughout the day, working as long as it is safe to do so, to restore power to all affected customers as quickly as possible.
Customers are advised that BELCO’s 955 number is temporarily out of service. Our IT team is working with our telecoms partners to resolve the issue as soon as possible. In the event of an emergency, such as a pole fire, please contact Emergency Services immediately. Customers experiencing partial current should email info@belco.bm for assistance.
BELCO encourages all customers to follow our social media channels or visit belco.bm for the latest updates on restoration progress.”
Severe weather watch lifted, but gale warning remains in effect tonight
Image: Satellite imagery from Zoom.Earth and BELCO’s outage map as of 8 am on February 1, 2026.
Around 3,000 BELCO customers were without power this morning as a winter gale continues to affect the island.
The Bermuda Weather Service has lifted its Severe Weather Watch, but a Gale Warning remains in effect through tonight.
According to the BELCO outage map, around 2,800 customers were without power as of 8 am, after outages climbed to more than 3,300 by 10pm last night. The areas most affected are Pembroke, Paget, Hamilton Parish and St. Georges.
Shelly Leman, Managing Director of Transmission, Distribution and Retail at BELCO said additional crews are being mobilised to support restoration efforts and they will continue to respond as long as it is safe to do so.
It was a wet and blustery night, with the BWS reporting that a “robust cluster of thunderstorms dissipated right on our doorstep during the evening.”
At the airport, 0.92 inches of rainfall were recorded, while winds peaked near 42 knots, with gusts up to 55 knots.
However, conditions remain unsettled and residents should remain cautious.
In its latest forecast, the BWS said: “A broad upper trough remains just west of the area with embedded into the polar jet. This continues to aid the deepening of a complex triple low to our west through north. This brings a return of blustery showers from mid-morning with a return of gales and storm force gusts that begin to ease from after midnight. Wind ease further to strong during the late night. Seas build high to very high today, and peak near 30-31ft before beginning to abate overnight.”
Grief & Loss Awareness Day to take place on March 6 at City Hall
The Gina Spence Program (Registered Charity #856) invites the public to save the date for Bermuda’s 2nd Annual Grief & Loss Awareness Day (BGLAD), taking place on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM, on the Front Steps of City Hall, Hamilton.
Observed annually on the first Friday of March, Bermuda’s Grief & Loss Awareness Day is a national moment of reflection, remembrance, and community connection.
Hosted by The Gina Spence Program, BGLAD creates space to acknowledge grief in all its forms and affirms a core truth at the heart of the initiative: we believe happiness and grief can coexist.
Following the strong community’s response to its inaugural observance — which saw over 150 people in attendance, BGLAD continues to grow as a meaningful and visible space for shared remembrance, awareness, and support.
While the day honors all experiences of loss, the 2026 focus places a dedicated lens on road fatalities in Bermuda, recognizing the sudden and far-reaching impact these losses have on families, loved ones, first responders, and the wider community.
The public is encouraged to:
Attend and stand in solidarity
Wear orange, the official color of grief awareness
Bring a chair, if needed, for personal comfort during the observance
Make a donation in honor or memory of a loved one, supporting accessible grief and loss services across Bermuda Corporate companies, local businesses, community groups, and individuals who wish to make a donation or learn more about supporting Bermuda’s Grief & Loss Awareness Day are encouraged to contact 296-0016 or email info@gspcharity.com.
Funds raised through BGLAD 2026 will directly support subsidized counselling, community education, and therapeutic grief support offered year-round by The Gina Spence Program. Additional event details, participation opportunities, and donation information will be shared in the coming weeks.
Because grief touches us all and no one should carry it alone.
Harry Twite produced a defensive masterclass to inspire Loughborough Students FC to a crucial 1-0 win over Lichfield City FC on Saturday. In a high-stakes NPL Midlands Division One encounter, the Bermudian defender proved impassable, hooking a goalbound effort off the line in the 58th minute before repeating the feat with a stunning header just four minutes later to preserve the clean sheet.
Further up the pyramid, Nahki Wells was a constant thorn in the side of the Blackpool defense as Luton Town ground out a 1-0 victory at Kenilworth Road. Meanwhile, at the Pirelli Stadium, goalkeeper Nathan Trott made several vital saves—including a point-blank stop in stoppage time—to ensure Cardiff City left with a 2-2 draw against Burton Albion.
It was a far tougher weekend for Bermudians in the non-league tiers. Kane Crichlow’s Chelmsford City suffered a bruising 5-0 defeat at Slough Town, while Reggie Lambe (Needham Market) and Milan Butterfield (Halesowen Town) both fell to defeats in the Southern League. Willie Clemons provided a rare bright spot at that level, helping Leiston FC to a 1-1 draw against Royston Town.
In National League North, the Hereford pairing of Keziah Martin and Justin Donawa went down 2-1 at Curzon Ashton, while in the Isthmian League, Coleridge Fubler’s heroics in goal weren’t enough to prevent Binfield from slipping to a 3-1 loss against Westfield.
Forecasters warn of strengthening winds, heavy rain and possible thunderstorms
Image: Satellite imagery from Zoom.Earth and surface rainfall intensity radar from the Bermuda Weather Service.
The Bermuda Weather Service has issued a severe weather watch for the island, as “a complex dual centered low” west of Bermuda continues to intensify, bringing deteriorating conditions.
Officials say gale-force winds are expected to “gust storm force within periods of rain and showers,” which “could become heavy at times with possible thunderstorms gusting above fifty knots, warranting a severe weather watch.”
Tonight’s forecast calls for rain and showers turning heavy at times, with a chance of thunder. Winds will be southeasterly, strengthening from strong to gale force and gusting to storm force, particularly in elevated or exposed areas. Temperatures are expected to fall to around 65°F.
Models also suggest that 2-3” of rainfall is possible this evening.
Conditions are expected to remain unsettled on Sunday, with cloudy spells and bouts of blustery showers. Winds will veer southwesterly and intensify again, becoming gale force with gusts to storm force during the morning.
Winds then veer “westerly strong to gale force overnight with gusts to gale force and west-northwesterly strong late night.”
Regarding our waters, the BWS adds: “Rough to very rough seas soon build high on Sunday, with hazardous long period swell developing as seas peak around 30ft outside the reef, diminishing slightly on Monday.”
The high on Sunday is forecast near 69°F, with a low around 57°F overnight.
To stay up to date with the latests updates from the Bermuda Weather Service, visit weather.bm .
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