Caribbean Climate Outlook Warns of Extreme Heatwave Effects for Upcoming Six Months

If the already-elevated temperatures have not convinced you, the recently published heat outlook from the Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF) lays it out explicitly – the region can expect to experience near-record heat levels for the next six months.  Temperatures are higher than usual, CariCOF says, and will only intensify as the peak of the Caribbean heat season (August and September) approaches. The extreme heat will impact almost all facets of everyday life; indeed, the Caribbean is already experiencing some of the effects of elevated temperatures. Public health experts can anticipate a “strong increase in mild heat symptoms” as well as a “notable increase in heat illnesses, fainting episodes,” and hospitalizations, according to CariCOF. The agency has also calculated a likely increase in biological risks such as gastrointestinal disease and mosquito borne diseases, notable as some jurisdictions are already grappling with a surge in cases of dengue. The excessive heat coul...