Trinidad and Tobago Declares 2025 Dry Season Commencement

The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service officially declared the start of the 2025 Dry Season, noting a reduction in rainfall and a transition to drier atmospheric conditions. This season typically results in elevated temperatures and increased stability, while certain areas are expected to receive more rainfall early in the season due to La Niña effects. Stringent regulations will apply to outdoor fires to prevent incidents during dry conditions.

The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service has officially announced the commencement of the 2025 Dry Season. In a recent update, the Met Office reported a notable decrease in rainfall frequency and outlined several atmospheric features including: the intensification and migration of the North Atlantic Sub-Tropical High-Pressure cell, a strengthened Trade-wind inversion, and upper-level westerly winds. Furthermore, the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) has moved to its southernmost position across the tropical Atlantic Ocean.
The transition to the Dry Season is characterized by the region’s atmospheric shift to a drier state, following a gradual phase-out of wet weather. The Met Office noted that climatic conditions observed in early January, including a weaker North Atlantic Sub-Tropical Pressure cell and strong upper-level easterly winds, had initially delayed the establishment of the Dry Season. However, there is now a clear reduction in rainfall due to dry season features.
The Dry Season typically brings reduced moisture, increased atmospheric stability, less frequent rainfall events, as well as warmer days and cooler nights. Additionally, the predominant wind direction shifts to easterly and north-easterly. The Met Office cautioned that while there is significantly less rainfall compared to the Wet Season, precipitation is still possible. Rainfall during this period will likely be influenced by systems distinct from Wet Season patterns, such as mid-latitude frontal systems.
The presence of a weak La Niña in the central tropical Pacific Ocean may positively impact rain-producing systems this Dry Season, potentially leading to enhanced rainfall during the early months from January through March. The Met Office’s National Climate Outlook Forum anticipates a wetter start to the Dry Season, particularly within this timeframe, although overall temperatures are expected to surpass normal levels, especially in urban areas with a forecasted average maximum of 33.5°C.
During the Dry Season, which spans from December 1 to June 30, regulations regarding outdoor fires will be strictly enforced. Individuals who start outdoor fires without obtaining the necessary permits could face severe penalties, including fines of up to $20,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.

The announcement of the 2025 Dry Season by Trinidad and Tobago’s Meteorological Service follows the region’s historical climatological patterns. The Dry Season traditionally sees a decrease in precipitation and an increase in atmospheric stability, contrasting the prior Wet Season characterized by higher rainfall and humidity. Understanding the dynamics of these seasons is crucial for preparedness and resource management, particularly concerning fire regulations during heightened dry conditions.

In summary, the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service has declared the 2025 Dry Season, highlighting a significant shift to drier weather patterns accompanied by various atmospheric changes. This transition is expected to result in elevated daytime and nighttime temperatures, with a potential for increased rainfall early in the season due to the influence of La Niña. Strict regulations regarding outdoor fires have been instituted to mitigate the risk of fire during this dry period.

Original Source: tt.loopnews.com