The World Meteorological Organization recently sighted 2015 as being the warmest year on record since 1880. Adding to this, the Saint Lucia Water Reserve Management Authority has stated that the year was also the driest in Saint Lucia for almost four decades.

Water Resource Management Authority Officer Fitzgerald John said the dry climate has had a significant impact on water levels throughout the island.

“Judging from the data we have at the WRMA, and the MET Services, the rainfall data for Union, George FL Charles and Hewanorra Airport showed that 2015 was the driest year that we've had on record for the past forty years. Also the SPI which is the standard index used to calculate drought, indicates that [rainfall is] below average. So leading up to the dry season (which is Dec. 1), Saint Lucia actually went into the dry season with a rainfall deficit.”

A prolonged dry spell has been predicted for 2016. As a result, farmers are being urged to take the initiative to ensure that they are prepared.

“We are looking at planting resistant crops, digging drainage at the correct height and length, and rainwater harvesting.”

The Saint Lucia Meteorological Services have stated that Saint Lucia is presently in an El Nino year which is influencing weather patterns across the globe.