Intense heat season for Caribbean, Barbados Water Authority shares water conservation tips

Bridgetown: The Barbados Water Authority shared some water conservation tips, as heatwaves hit the country. The CariCOF predicted an “Intense Heat Season” for the Caribbean nation, due to which there are high chances of frequent heatwaves across the region.

The Barbados-based Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF) issued a warning that this year could bring severe weather events to the Caribbean nations. Keeping this in mind, the water authority urged people to follow the precautionary measures during this tough time.

 Some of the tips are as follows,

• The people of the nation are urged to utilize water in gardens or lawns only when needed and noting this, the ideal time for the exercise is in the early morning or late evening because evaporation is at its lowest during these times.
• The farmers or even other people in the country are suggested to use recycled water, a drip irrigation system or watering cans.
• One must cover or shield themselves from the harmful rays of the sun as such heatwaves have extremely harmful effects on the health.
• The nationals are asked to limit the time spent outdoors and try to be at their homes, especially in the afternoon.
• While venturing outside of the homes, people may use umbrellas and can wear hats and full-sleeved clothes.
• It is advised to avoid drinking tea, coffee and liquor.
• Drinking plenty of water is mandatory to stay hydrated during the heat season.
• The public is urged to keep the animals in the shade and give them enough water to drink.
• Avoid any heavy physical activities during peak hours of sunlight.

Moreover, CariCOF estimated that people of Caribbean nations may experience higher temperatures than the usual warm season. The officials have shared that the long-term drought has developed in Dominica, Antigua, Martinique, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, northern Guyana, Haiti, Guadeloupe, French Guiana, northern Belize, and the Windward Islands.