Yes! El Niño is a weather phenomenon that makes the Caribbean islands warmer and drier. It also makes the islands less likely to be hit by hurricanes, but the hurricanes that do hit can be more powerful. El Niño is caused by warmer than normal sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean. This warming weakens the trade winds that bring moisture to the Caribbean islands. As a result, the islands receive less rainfall.
Also, drought can have a number of negative effects on the Caribbean islands, such as reduced agricultural production, water shortages, increased risk of forest fires and damage to coral reefs. This phenomenon also affects the hurricane season in the Caribbean. During an El Niño year, there are usually fewer hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean. This is because the stronger trade winds associated with El Niño make it more difficult for hurricanes to form and develop.
However, it is important to note that even during an El Niño year it is possible for hurricanes to form and affect the Caribbean. In fact, some of the most powerful hurricanes in history have occurred during El Niño years. Scientists continue to study the relationship between El Niño and the Caribbean islands. As climate change continues, El Niño events are likely to become more frequent and intense. This could have important consequences for the region, including an increased risk of drought and water shortages.
We can see how El Niño has affected the Caribbean islands in the past. The 2009-2010 El Niño was one of the strongest on record. It caused severe drought in the Caribbean, leading to water shortages and crop failures. The 2014-2016 El Niño also caused significant drought in the Caribbean. However, it was not as severe as that of 2009-2010. Subsequently, the 2017-2018 El Niño of 2017-2018 was relatively weak. It did not cause significant drought in the Caribbean. However, it was associated with fewer hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean.
This year there have been storms that have affected the island of Antigua, and there have been unfortunate results. One of the consequences was the fire that Storm Philippe caused, we invite you to read more about it.
