Met Office: Short-Term Drought Outlook

According to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS), a short-term drought is expected across Tobago, Northeast Trinidad and the lower Caroni River basin in October through November, based on the 6-month Standard Precipitation Index (SPI) values expected at Crown Point (OCT: -1.65, NOV: -1.5), Hillsborough (OCT: -1.64, NOV: -1.46), Valencia (OCT: -1.76, NOV: -1.5) and Piarco (OCT: -1.45, NOV: -1.41).


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Sector Impacts

  • Agriculture: Elevated risk for crops and livestock due to irregular rainfall frequency, a greater number of hot spell days and decreased soil moisture.
  • Water Supply: Reduced recharge rate for dams, underground reservoirs, and stream flows. Lowering surface water availability for distribution systems.

Suggested Actions

  • Water and Energy Sector: Implement continuous water conservation measures, as drier than usual conditions through the latter half of 2026 threaten to extend into the 2027 Dry Season. Advise on proper water storage and usage.
  • Agriculture and Food Security: Monitor water use and maintain adequate irrigation and water storage on fields. Ensure regular weeding to reduce competition and water stress on crops. Monitor for pests that will favour the less-wet-than-usual conditions.
  • Disaster Risk Management Sector: Sensitize communities on the drought forecast and implement management and response plans ahead of the upcoming 2027 Dry Season. Revisit early warning information dissemination channels.
  • Health Sector: Clear bushes, open drainage systems, and fumigate in and around residences. Revisit contingency plans to manage spike in vector-borne incidences and rainfall-related infections.

The full TTMS Dryness/Drought Indicator Outlook (issued 14/08/2026) is available at: https://www.metoffice.gov.tt/our-services/dryness-drought-indicator-monitor-and-outlook.

Please continue to pay attention to the latest forecasts, alerts, and information issued by the TTMS.

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