By Belize Live News Staff: The Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF) has issued a forecast predicting a complex weather pattern for the region from July to September, marked by unpredictable storms, persistent high temperatures, and drought conditions.
CariCOF’s analysis indicates that 2024 is shaping up to be a year of significant climate extremes in the Caribbean. The cooling trend in the equatorial Pacific suggests a progression towards La Niña, while unusually warm temperatures in the Tropical North Atlantic are expected to persist. This combination of factors could lead to frequent and intense periods of oppressive humidity and heat, increasing the risk of tropical cyclones, flooding, and other severe weather events.
The peak of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, coinciding with the Caribbean Wet and Heat Seasons, raises concerns about the frequency and intensity of storms. In addition, more frequent intrusions of dry Saharan air, particularly in July, could lead to erratic storm and shower activity while maintaining record-high temperatures in the Lesser Antilles.
As of June 1, severe or worse short-term drought conditions have been identified in Belize, northern Guyana, and the United States Virgin Islands. Long-term drought is expected to persist in several regions until the end of November, including Western Cuba, French Guiana, parts of Guadeloupe, northern Guyana, and Suriname.
In light of these forecasts, Caribbean nations and residents are urged to be prepared for extreme weather events. It is essential to stay informed about weather updates, have emergency plans in place, and take steps to mitigate the impacts of drought and flooding.
