2024 to See Hotter Temperatures and Increased Severity of Hurricanes

Dr. Cedric Van Meerbeeck, a climatologist at the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology, predicts that the summer of 2024 will bring extreme temperatures and weather patterns to the Caribbean region. This is due to a fading El Nino event in the Pacific, warm Atlantic Ocean temperatures, and frequent Saharan dust plumes. The North Atlantic is currently record warm, leading to predictions of more heatwaves and hotter, stickier weather earlier than usual.

The Barbados Meteorological Services reported that the transition into the heat season will begin in April, with temperatures becoming uncomfortable during the day and night. Dr. Van Meerbeeck advises caution, especially for caregivers of children, recommending that they keep kids indoors during peak sun hours to prevent heat-related illnesses. He also warns that the return of La Nina, along with warm Atlantic Ocean temperatures, could intensify the hurricane season and increase the potential for flooding.

The climatologist notes that the hurricane season in 2023 was the fourth most active in recent decades, and this year could potentially be just as active or even worse. He stresses the importance of preparing for various scenarios, from extreme heat and wet conditions to initially drier conditions, which could pose challenges to agriculture, food security, water resources, and public health. Dr. Van Meerbeeck’s message to the Caribbean community is to prepare for the worst and be ready for the possibility of intense hurricanes and flooding.

Dr. Van Meerbeeck shared these predictions at the Regional Workshop on National Frameworks for Climate Services in Barbados, highlighting the factors driving the extreme weather patterns in 2024. He emphasized the impact of warm Atlantic Ocean temperatures, which have been at near-record levels since last summer, and the potential for more heatwaves and severe hurricanes. The climatologist urged the community to take proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with the predicted climate extremes.

In conclusion, Dr. Van Meerbeeck’s advice to the Caribbean region is to prepare for a summer of extreme heat, potential flooding, and an active hurricane season in 2024. He stresses the importance of taking precautions to protect against heat-related illnesses, particularly for vulnerable populations like children. The climatologist’s warning serves as a reminder for individuals, communities, and governments to prioritize climate resilience and adaptation strategies in the face of the changing climate patterns in the region.