potential risks for Health, Agriculture, and Livestock

THE Hydrometeorological Service, Ministry of Agriculture, has issued a forecast predicting above-normal temperatures across Guyana from September to November 2024. This period, traditionally the warmest time of the year, particularly in September and October, is expected to bring extreme heat and an increased number of heat-wave days, with potentially serious implications for public health, agriculture, and livestock.
Health Risks: The forecast warns that the heightened temperatures could significantly impact public health, especially among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. With the likelihood of more frequent heat-wave days, the risk of heat-related illnesses—including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke—will be elevated. The Hydrometeorological Service is urging the public to take precautionary measures, including staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and ensuring that living and working environments are well ventilated.

Agriculture and Livestock Concerns: The forecast also highlights potential challenges for farmers, as the September to October period aligns with the driest months in Northern Guyana and the onset of the long dry season in the South. Reduced water availability and increased stress on crops could lead to lower yields, particularly for water-intensive crops. Livestock will also be vulnerable during this period, with heat stress likely to impact their health, productivity, and overall well-being. Farmers are advised to ensure adequate water supplies, provide shaded areas for animals, and closely monitor livestock for signs of heat stress, such as reduced feed intake, lethargy, and increased breathing rates.

Record Temperatures Observed: The warning comes after a year of consistently high temperatures, with average daytime temperatures across Guyana from January to July 2024 already exceeding the historical norm of 32°C. Some months this year have even recorded higher temperatures than the same period in 2023, which was itself a record-breaking year. Normally, up to 35 heat wave days are observed during the September to November dry season, but there is now a significant chance that this threshold will be exceeded, posing further risks to public health, agriculture, and livestock.

The Hydrometeorological Service is calling on all stakeholders to prepare for this period of extreme heat by staying informed of weather updates, implementing water-saving strategies, and taking proactive measures to protect health, crops, and livestock. The Service will continue to provide updates to its seasonal outlook as new information becomes available and recommends paying close attention to short-range forecasts and weather analyses from the National Weather Watch Center.
For more detailed and location-specific information, the public is encouraged to visit the Hydrometeorological Service’s website at www.hydromet.gov.gy or contact the 24/7 forecasting desk at 261-2284 or 261-2216.