The higher than normal temperatures which the country has been experiencing for the past few months are expected to continue into the wet season, both during the day and during the night. The wet season in T&T is usually from June to December, during which time 75-80 per cent of the annual rainfall for the country takes place.
According to a release from the T&T Met Service, maximum temperatures in Trinidad are expected to average near 32.5 degrees Celsius in Trinidad over the period and near 31.3 degrees Celsius in Tobago.
The night minimum temperatures are expected to average near 23.9 degrees Celsius in Trinidad and near 24.7 degrees Celsius in Tobago.
The Met Office said there was a very high chance for short-duration hot spells during September and October, when daily maximum temperatures could exceed 34 degrees Celsius in Trinidad and 33 degrees Celsius in Tobago.
While rainfall is predicted to be above normal in June and normal or near normal in July, from August onward below normal rainfall is expected.
“In the north-east Trinidad near Sangre Grande, Valencia and environs near normal rainfall totals have the best chances of occurring,” the Met release said.
The Met office forecast calls for between 14-18 extremely wet days in Trinidad and 11-13 in Tobago.
During an El Nino or neutral wet seasons the country tends to get on average, about 19 extremely wet days in Trinidad and 14 in Tobago, these are days with rainfall above 25.0 mm in 24 hours.
“These suggest that the risk for flooding is still high across the country, even though overall near to below normal rainfall is forecasted. Rainfall totals with the highest chance of occurring range from 2,443 mm in north-east Trinidad to 1045 mm in extreme south-west Trinidad. Across in Tobago, totals range from about 1,900 mm near Mount Saint George and environs to 1,250 near Crown Point and environs.”
IMPACTS OF THE CURRENT WET SEASON
The expected increase in rainfall combined with recent bushfires mean faster run-off in hilly areas which increases the risk of flash and riverine flooding, landslips and landslides.
Expect an increase in surface water ponding, which should increase mosquito breeding sites and therefore the chance for more incidences of vector-borne diseases.
Expected increases in rainfall will improve water reservoir levels, increase ground water recharge, surface water flows and water availability; however, water reservoirs in areas with prior rainfall shortage may require extended periods of heavy rainfall to fully recover.
The travelling public should be aware that increased rainfall could lead to more frequent disruptions in localized travel and outdoor activities.
It should be noted that above-normal temperatures can aid more intense showers which will increase the risk for flash floods, especially in the cities and built-up areas.
Also, increases in rainfall, mixed with warm and humid conditions tend to promote rapid multiplication of some agricultural pests, diseases and fungal growth.
