Prolonged May/June rainy season expected- Climatologist

The Hydrometeorological Service of the Ministry of Agriculture on Tuesday held its National Climate Outlook Forum at Herdmanston Lodge.

Specialist meteorologist with responsibility for climatology, Komal Dhiram, explained that the usual May / June rainy season is likely to last longer than it usually does.

“In addition to seeing above normal rainfall, we are also seeing an increase in the number of wet days as compared to the normal amount of wet days that you would see in the 90-day-period” Dhiram stated.

He added, “You might have noticed that there has been an early transition into the rainy season and this is something that we have identified in our bulletins earlier this year.”

Because of this forecast, he advised persons to ensure that there is proper drainage and irrigation. He also urged farmers to plan appropriately as there is a higher change for extreme rainfall.

The hydro-meteorological service noted that in low-lying and areas with poor drainage, flooding is likely. Persons should exercise caution in efforts to safeguard life and property.