King Charles III was left soaked by a sudden torrential downpour during Antigua and Barbuda’s 45th Independence Day celebrations, after appearing to wait more than a minute for an umbrella as heavy rain drenched his suit.
The incident occurred on Sunday at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, where the British monarch and Queen Camilla were attending official events marking the Caribbean nation’s independence.
While Queen Camilla was quickly provided with an umbrella and guided toward shelter, King Charles remained exposed to the rain, appearing visibly frustrated as he gestured to aides for assistance. Witnesses said the King stood in the downpour for over a minute before an umbrella was eventually brought to him.
Despite the awkward moment, the monarch maintained his composure and continued with the ceremony once he received cover from the rain.
Later, Charles reportedly made light of the situation, joking with Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne that he might “grow watercress” on his rain-soaked suit. The royal couple were said to have laughed about the incident after the weather improved.
The Antigua engagement formed part of the King’s ongoing Caribbean tour, which began last Tuesday in the Bahamas. During a speech at a youth rally there, Charles acknowledged what he described as the “great suffering of the past,” referencing the region’s historical links to slavery.
The issue of slavery and colonial history has remained in focus throughout the tour. Ahead of the King’s visit to Guyana, President Mohamed Irfaan Ali said Charles had recognised slavery as among the “darkest days in human history” and suggested that a formal apology would be the next step.
During his visit to Guyana, the King paid his respects at Independence Park in Georgetown, where 33 individuals involved in the 1823 Demerara Rebellion were executed by hanging.
Queen Camilla had arrived in Antigua several days ahead of the King, who joined her late on Friday. The couple spent Saturday together before participating in the independence celebrations.
With renewed attention on the King’s remarks throughout the Caribbean tour, palace officials emphasised his role in strengthening ties across the Commonwealth.
A senior palace aide said the monarch is experienced in navigating sensitive diplomatic issues and sees it as part of his duty to promote and maintain relationships between Britain, its realms and Commonwealth nations.
The royal visit comes amid growing discussions across the Caribbean about historical injustices, reparations, and the evolving relationship between former British colonies and the Crown.
