By Zoila Palma: Across the Caribbean, leaders, farmers and businesses are being urged to strengthen preparations for potentially severe climate conditions as a strengthening El Niño threatens to worsen the hot and dry weather already affecting parts of the region.
The Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) and the University of the West Indies Climate Studies Group Mona (UWI CSGM) issued the warning as the region enters its peak heat season from August through October.
Climate officials say El Niño conditions strengthened rapidly from weak levels in May to moderate levels by July, with forecasts indicating a high likelihood of very strong conditions between October and December 2026.
Below-normal rainfall could persist into 2027, while extreme heat may become particularly severe during the next heat season from March through May. Drought conditions could worsen across parts of the Eastern and Greater Caribbean as reduced rainfall combines with increased evaporation.
The impacts are expected to extend across several sectors, including agriculture, water, health, energy and tourism.
Rain-fed farming, including in Belize and Jamaica, is considered particularly vulnerable as longer and more frequent dry spells could reduce crop production and threaten food security.
Professor Michael Taylor, co-director of UWI CSGM, described the developing situation as a “slow-moving crisis,” stressing that preparations should begin immediately despite expectations for a relatively quiet Atlantic hurricane season.
Weather experts warned that reduced rainfall could also affect regional supply chains and increase food costs, while higher temperatures could raise demand for water and electricity.
The post International News: Caribbean urged to prepare as strengthening El Niño raises heat and drought concerns appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Across the Caribbean, leaders, farmers and businesses are being urged to strengthen preparations for potentially severe climate conditions as a strengthening El Niño threatens to worsen the hot and dry weather already affecting parts of the region. The Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) and the University of the West Indies
The post International News: Caribbean urged to prepare as strengthening El Niño raises heat and drought concerns appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
