Caribbean prepares for record heat season

The Caribbean is currently experiencing an unusually warm spell, and it looks like this trend will continue, possibly until October.

Near-record temperatures are expected across the region, especially in August and September.

The Barbados-based Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF) has released its Heat Outlook for May through October.

The report predicts that the period from May to July, which marks the early phase of the Caribbean heat season in the Caribbean islands and Belize, will be significantly hotter than normal.

The forecast points to intense, near-record-breaking levels of heat during the day and night, exacerbated by rising humidity from June to September.

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Health and environmental problems

With rising temperatures and humidity, concerns are growing about the impact on vulnerable populations and small livestock.

Conditions can lead to frequent, intense and possibly prolonged periods of heat stress during these months.

Expected number of heat wave days

The typical number of heat wave days varies by region.

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Historically, there have been 15 to 20 such days in Puerto Rico and the northern Leeward Islands, and 5 to 10 in Belize and the wind-sheltered areas of the Lesser Antilles.

However, the forecasts for this year are alarming: 30 to 50 heat wave days are expected in the Bahamas, Barbados, Trinidad and the wind-sheltered areas of the Windward Islands, while at least 30 days are expected in the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Martinique , Saint Lucia and Trinidad.

Local responses to heat conditions

Several Caribbean islands have already started issuing heat wave advisories in response to rising temperatures.

They have raised concerns about light winds and high humidity, which could lead to dangerously warm conditions.

In Belize, the National Meteorological Service has issued a heat warning for May 8, warning that temperatures could exceed 97°F.

Residents, especially those inland, are advised to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

In addition, the Grenada Meteorological Services reported a heatwave on the island on Monday, marking the second straight day of temperatures above 31.7°C at Point Salines.

A 48-hour heat wave advisory was introduced.

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