A prolonged period of below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures is expected, as the current El Niño episode is set to persist into early 2027.
The Guyana Hydrometeorological Service warned of growing pressure on water resources, agriculture, health and energy, speaking at the 21st National Climate Outlook Forum on Tuesday.

Chief Hydrometeorological Officer Dr Garvin Cummings said forecasts point to a strong El Niño through the coming months, with below-normal rainfall expected from October through March, alongside continued elevated temperatures.

"The concern is really what is going to happen at the end of the year with respect to November-January rainfall. Whether we'd be able to have those conservancy refilled, for the want of a better word right now. It is difficult to say at this time what will be the rainfall deficit at the end of the year," Cummings said.

The Hydromet Service stressed that El Niño does not mean an absence of rain. Rather, the concern is a suppression of normal rainfall, potentially creating deficits during periods when the country typically relies on rainfall to replenish water resources.

"What we're watching very carefully now in terms of drought is what is going to happen at the end of the year. Will we be able to have those conservancies refilled, go back to full supply level or not. If there's no rainfall, then those levels are going to continue to fall, and that's where water rationing becomes a real thing," Cummings said.

Hydromet officials highlighted increased heat stress for crops and livestock, greater dehydration risks, possible wildfire activity, pressure on water supplies and increased electricity demand as the populace rely more heavily on cooling.

The National Drainage and Irrigation Authority has already positioned mobile pumps along the coast to facilitate irrigation, should water shortages affect farming communities. Other stakeholders, including public health and disaster-response agencies, are also being kept informed to strengthen preparedness.

The Hydromet Service said it will continue updating its forecasts monthly, allowing stakeholders to adjust their plans as conditions evolve.