The dominant story in Palm Beach County revolves around large-scale student-led walkouts protesting ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) policies, which occurred on February 16, 2026 (Presidents Day). Hundreds of students from multiple high schools—including Palm Beach Lakes High School, Lake Worth Beach Community High School, John I. Leonard High School, and others—walked out of classes to demonstrate against federal immigration enforcement, family separations, and related policies under the current administration. Protests involved chanting, signs, and street marches.Tragically, incidents marred some demonstrations:A minor (believed to be a participant) was struck by a vehicle during a protest in West Palm Beach near North Military Trail/South Wind Plaza, sustaining non-life-threatening injuries. West Palm Beach police are investigating the collision, with the driver cooperating.
Other reports noted tense moments, including police intervention in arguments at additional sites.
The School District of Palm Beach County responded by emphasizing student safety, protocols, and potential disciplinary actions for unauthorized walkouts.Other recent developments in the county (past week):A motorcyclist (21-year-old from Palm Beach Gardens) died in a crash on Alternate A1A after colliding with an SUV (reported around February 16).
Beach renourishment project in Mid-Town Palm Beach began on February 17 to restore sand eroded by storms.
Community efforts included a crash reenactment event to educate teens amid rising teen crashes.
Weather impacts from a cold front brought gale warnings, rough seas, and gusty conditions offshore earlier in the week.
President Trump's Presidents Day weekend visit to Mar-a-Lago led to temporary road closures on South Ocean Boulevard (reopened by evening February 16).
Jupiter (in northern Palm Beach County)
Local news in Jupiter has been quieter, focusing on community and seasonal events rather than major incidents.Key highlights:The Town of Jupiter hosted a Town-wide Flood Vulnerability Assessment Public Presentation on February 17 at 5:30 p.m. in the Community Room at Town Hall (210 Military Trail). Town Council members may have attended (no official business discussed).
Miami Marlins players reported for Spring Training in Jupiter (full squad by February 16), with excitement building for the 2026 season under owner Bruce Sherman and leadership.
Ongoing or recent road work notifications included temporary closures/lane restrictions on Carver Avenue and nearby areas (e.g., through late February for fire station-related projects).
Events at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum included a lecture on "250 Years on the Loxahatchee River" by historian Josh Liller on February 17.
Town Hall observed Presidents Day closure on February 16.
No major protests, accidents, or emergencies were prominently reported in Jupiter itself during this period, though the area shares in broader Palm Beach County weather and regional news.Overall, the past week featured a mix of activism and immigration-related tensions in the county, alongside routine community, sports, and infrastructure updates. Chinese/Lunar New Year began on February 17 (Year of the Horse), with various cultural observances noted regionally. Weather improved after earlier gusty conditions from a passing front.
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