By Sue-Ann Wayow

THE Dry Season has officially begun.

The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) announced the start of the season on Thursday.

In a media release, TTMS stated, “At this time, the atmosphere over the region has transitioned to its drier state following a gradual transition from the Wet into the Dry Season.

“During early January, the climatic patterns and features (a relatively strong North Atlantic Sub-Tropical Pressure cell combined with the shift in upper-level wind direction to mostly westerlies winds) have led to an observed reduction in the frequency of showery and/or rainy weather over Trinidad and Tobago.

“Additionally, Dry Season synoptic features, such as passing mid-latitude frontal systems have induced moist low-level perturbations over the region.”

The TTMS also advised that the Dry Season was not totally devoid of rainfall.

“The Dry Season is generally characterised by reduced moisture; increased atmospheric stability, fewer deep clouds, less frequent rainfall events, warm days and cool nights, strengthening trade winds tied to a general shift in the surface wind direction to mostly easterlies to north easterlies, all of which Trinidad and Tobago is experiencing,” TTMS stated.

The initial part of the dry season, January to March, is expected to be mostly wetter than normal and warmer than usual, which may result in the following:

·       Less vegetative stress due to relatively less surface dryness.

·       A positive impact on surface and groundwater recharge and stream flow rates.

·       An increase in the breeding areas for insect vectors, such as mosquitoes, due to uncovered water storage devices and water pooling in drains, low-lying areas and roof guttering.

·       A decrease in the potential for bush, forest and landfill fires especially during January to March.

 As the Dry Season progresses, the latter part of the season April through May is expected to be as wet as usual, which may result in the following:

·       While the potential for bush, forest and landfill fires might be reduced, it still remains.

·       Reduction in ground water recharge, surface water flows and rain-fed water availability.

·       There is an increased probability for the occurrence of Saharan dust-haze events, which will reduce air quality.

The public is being advised to conserve, store and manage water in a sustainable manner.

The public should also comply with the Agricultural Fires Act or refrain from burning rubbish in grassy or forested areas during the Dry Season.

Relevant agencies and ministries are advised to take measures to mitigate the potential impacts of the Dry Season.

The Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) says it is already implementing measures to manage the country’s water supply.

In a media release on Friday, WASA stated, “As we enter this drier period, it is critical that both the Authority and citizens work together to manage water responsibly. We are closely monitoring our water resources and taking steps to maintain a sustainable supply throughout the Dry Season.”

WASA stated as of Thursday, four main impounded reservoirs – Arena, Navet, Hillsborough and Hollis surpassed their respective Long-Term Averages (LTA) which gives WASA a good footing.

WASA stated it has already activated its water supply management activities in accordance with its Dry Season Water Management Plan, aimed at maintaining a sustainable and equitable water supply for all communities throughout the Dry Season.

 Key elements include:

•         Prudent monitoring and management of water resources: Ensuring the strategic and equitable distribution of available water supplies.

•         Infrastructure maintenance and upgrades: Following a rigorous maintenance protocol to reduce leaks, while continuing the upgrade and replacement of aged infrastructure to ensure reliability and efficiency.

•         Public awareness: Under the theme, “Join the Evolution. Make Every Drop Count”, WASA will use all media platforms to keep stakeholders informed about supply challenges, mitigation measures, conservation techniques, and reservoir updates.