Persons living in the Caribbean and parts of Central America have been put on notice that the region is currently experiencing an unusually warm period, and this trend is forecasted to continue possibly until October 2024. Photo: alchetron.com

According to the Barbados-based Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF), in its Heat Outlook for May through October, near-record temperatures, particularly high in August and September, are anticipated across the region and the report forecasts that the period from May to July, which marks the early phase of the Caribbean Heat Season in the Caribbean Islands and in Belize, will be significantly hotter than usual. Photo: CariCOF

This comes as the Barbados-based Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF) has released its Heat Outlook for May through October.  

Near-record temperatures, particularly high in August and September, are anticipated across the region and the report forecasts that the period from May to July, which marks the early phase of the Caribbean Heat Season in the Caribbean Islands and in Belize, will be significantly hotter than usual, according to a report from CNW Weekly.

Heat advisory

As recent as early last month, the Virgin Islands sounded the alarm for record temperatures with an April 8, 2024 heat advisory that came as a result of high temperatures, relatively high humidity and light winds.

The heat was particularly high during the 11: 00 AM-2:00 PM mid-day house with the UV-Index reaching as high as 11, which is a very high risk of exposure.

“The threat of health problems, for mainly sensitive people, is forecast to be high, with the potential for extensive impacts,” a forecast from the DDM warned.

The implications of such extreme heat extend far beyond mere discomfort. While extreme heat can put everyone at risk for heat illnesses, health risks are greatest for the elderly, young children, people with chronic illnesses such as breathing difficulties, heart conditions or psychiatric illnesses, people who work or who exercise in the heat, homeless people and low-income earners.

The soaring temperatures, coupled with escalating humidity, are likely to exacerbate the situation, underscoring the urgent need for adaptive measures.