Volcanology: Mount Pelée in Martinique is back in the spotlight after a surge in activity. The Martinique Volcanological and Seismological Observatory recorded 124 volcanic earthquakes in the week ending July 31—nearly triple the previous week—and 331 across all of July. Ground swelling near the summit continues, pointing to pressurised sources below. The alert level remains YELLOW, with scientists saying an eruption in the short term is unlikely, but an evolution over weeks to months can’t be ruled out. Regional Earth Science: A 4.4 magnitude shallow earthquake struck about 45 km east of Castries, with tremors felt across Saint Lucia, Martinique, and St Vincent and the Grenadines; no damage or injuries were reported. Marine Environment: A new report flags a major sargassum problem across the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico: about 27 million metric tons recorded in July, with scientists noting this year’s growth in the region is “not normal,” raising risks for marine life and tourism. Public Health Lab Capacity: Eastern Caribbean lab professionals boosted skills for rapid molecular diagnostics for diseases like measles, leptospirosis, and hantavirus, using a One Health approach that links human and animal health. Energy Governance (St. Vincent): Former ministers Carlos James and Melissa Peters sharply criticized the current administration’s handling of electricity and the geothermal project, arguing the state—not utility management—must own policy and subsidy decisions.