Possible near-record heat for Caribbean in 2024 heat season

The Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF) based in Barbados has forecasted near-record heat in the Caribbean region until October, particularly in August and September, making people feel irritable and uncomfortable.

The Heat Outlook for April to September 2024 predicts that the next three to six months will experience intense daytime and night-time heat, with April to June being hotter than usual and marking the transition into the Caribbean heat season.

As a result, the vulnerable population and small livestock will be prone to heat stress due to high temperature and humidity in September.

Moreover, the need for cooling will rise earlier and faster than in most other years, peaking in August and September.

The forecast for April to June 2024 predicts over 50 heatwave days inland Belize, with 30 to 50 in Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and leeward locations in the Windward Islands.

Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago are expected to have at least 30 heatwave days. Several islands in the Caribbean region have already recorded hot days in April.

 For instance, Grenada marked its 8th consecutive day with temperatures above 31.7 degrees Celsius at Point Salines, resulting in a heatwave advisory on April 6.

Similarly, an excessive heat warning was issued in Antigua and Barbuda on April 6, and a heat advisory was issued in the British Virgin Islands on April 8.