By Saskia Warrick
At the 16th National Climate Outlook Forum convened earlier today, meteorologists delivered a forecast signaling the transition from dry El Nino conditions to the onset of the May/June rainy season.
The forum, attended by key agencies nationwide, served as a platform to discuss early climate predictions and formulate risk management strategies, particularly in sectors vulnerable to climate fluctuations such as agriculture.
According to Specialist Meteorologist Komalchand Dhiram, the forecast indicates above-normal rainfall across most regions of Guyana, except for Regions 6 and 9.
The upcoming rainy season is anticipated to bring relief from the dry spell induced by El Nino, with up to 64 wet days projected, primarily concentrated in Regions 3, 4, 7, and 10.
Regions 7, Northern 8, and 9 are expected to receive the highest rainfall amounts, while Regions 2 and 3 may experience exceptionally high precipitation levels.
Despite the anticipated increase in rainfall, Dhiram cautioned that the lingering effects of El Nino may still impact the region to some extent.
Moreover, the forecast predicts 2–6 heat wave days between April and June, a slight uptick from historical averages.
While this number remains relatively low for this time of year, there is a possibility of increased heat wave activity compared to previous years.
As Guyana braces for the transition to the rainy season, stakeholders are urged to remain vigilant and prepare accordingly for potential climate-related challenges.
The forum’s insights provide valuable guidance for risk mitigation efforts and the enhancement of resilience across various sectors.