Sep 30, 2026
2 min read
Region Two is under a drought warning, with above-normal temperatures and between 40 and 50 hot-spell days forecast as El Niño conditions continue.
Meteorologist attached to the Hydromet Service Komchand Dhiram briefed stakeholders on Wednesday at an El Niño preparedness consultation hosted by the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) in the region.
Dhiram said October is expected to be the peak period, with eight hot-spell days predicted, while November typically brings at least 15. Conditions should ease from November as the El Niño influence changes, but forecasts extending into March next year still point to the possibility of above-normal temperatures. He noted that predictions are updated monthly and urged stakeholders to use them to plan ahead.
Against that backdrop, Regional Chairman Devin Mohan called for preparedness measures that are practical, measurable and timely. He said the region must strengthen coordination among the CDC, the agricultural sector, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and other essential services so that emerging challenges, particularly water shortages, are addressed quickly.
Mohan stressed that clearly defined responsibilities, timelines and response mechanisms must be in place, along with a real-time rapid response system to identify communities facing water shortages and ensure that vulnerable residents, including elderly persons and persons with disabilities, can access water and other essential services.
He also urged stakeholders to manage investments in agricultural infrastructure carefully so that resources reach farmers when needed, adding that identifying risks early would be critical to protecting communities and livelihoods.
CDC representative Maria Harrinarine Singh highlighted the need for preparedness in areas including health, agriculture and crop management. The CDC's Dr Leslynann Garraway outlined national measures, describing the Commission as a coordinating hub that works through regional systems to build community capability and escalate measures as risks evolve.
The consultation also examined the heightened risk of vegetation fires during prolonged dry and hot conditions. Region Two Fire Station Divisional Officer (ag) Suresh Persaud said dry vegetation and grasslands ignite readily and allow fires to spread rapidly. Accumulated rubbish adds fuel, and wind can carry embers into nearby vegetation and structures.
He noted that limited water availability could delay firefighting and increase reliance on tankers and bowsers. Remote and Indigenous communities face longer response times, making prevention, local firefighting capacity and early notification particularly important.
