SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY, (DCOMM) – Residents and visitors are urged to be proactive in identifying and combatting the spread of misinformation and disinformation.
There is a notice circulating on WhatsApp and possibly other social media that the Sint Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) will be closed on Monday, August 31, 2026, due to severe weather conditions. This notice is fake news.
For official news check out SMMC website at https://smgh.sx/ and follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/StMaartenMedicalCenter/
Also check before you act and verify first the information by going to the official source.
False and misleading claims via WhatsApp and social media platforms for can create confusion, undermine public trust, and even endanger lives.
The spread of false narratives such as fabricated images, bulletins, printed posts and videos of storm damage, often taken from past events or created with AI, can incite panic or outrage.
A single click or share of an unverified post can have real-world consequences of creating distrust. Everyone has a role to play in ensuring our communities are equipped with accurate, life-saving information.
To help the public navigate the information landscape during the hurricane season, follow these steps: Trust Official Sources First: Always prioritize information from official and trusted channels.
Listen to the Government Radio station – SXMGOV 107.9FM - for official information and news before, during and after a hurricane. You can also follow 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.
Reputable news organizations are also a source that carry’s official news and information.
Verify Before You Share. Before sharing, ask yourself: Who is the source? Is this an official agency or a personal account? Is it an original post? Check if the notice, image or video has been shared before in a different context using a reverse image search tool.
Does this information match what official sources are saying? Always cross-reference against your trusted sources.
Misinformation often preys on fear and anxiety. Be wary of posts that use highly emotional language or create a sense of urgency to share immediately.
By taking these simple steps, we can all contribute to a safer and more informed community.
For official weather-related information, you can also follow MDS via their social media page Facebook.com/sxmweather/
Here are also official WhatsApp channels: Met Office WhatsApp Channel:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VajATqK7oQhkHMN8wL1e
Department of Communication Chat:
