Jamaicans to experience intense heat wave

Weather expert Glenroy Brown says temperatures are likely to soar up to five degrees above normal.

“Bad news, Jamaica!” said Brown, reporting on his Weather Jamaica channel on X (formerly Twitter). “From May 13 to May 18, 2024, prepare for persistent heat and dry weather as temperatures will be soaring 5 degrees Celsius above normal, as indicated by the fiery red colors on the map.”

This severe heat is linked to the El Nino effect says meteorologist Brian Shields who noted that ocean temperatures in the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean are extremely warm at the moment.

Despite the heat wave being predicted some sections of the island’s hilly interior could experience a bit of rainfall in the afternoon during the week, Brown said. 

Over the last month Jamaicans have been feeling the heat literally as temperatures have spiraled into the mid-30s even though summer has not yet started.

According to experts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration the year 2024 is one of the warmest in recorded history with global temperatures some two degrees above average.

Meantime, persons are urged to stay hydrated, and if possible avoid going out during the sun’s hottest period of the day between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm.