Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are forecasted to stay clear of drought conditions for the rest of the year, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) reporting continued wet conditions across these Caribbean territories. Despite the absence of drought, agriculture faces challenges due to excessive rainfall from tropical storms, including Tropical Cyclone Ernesto, which have led to crop damage, fungal outbreaks, and potential feed shortages for farmers.
The NOAA and NIDIS have documented the impacts of these weather conditions, highlighting flooded farmlands, limited pasture access, and silt plumes in coastal waters among the adverse effects on agriculture and the environment. Both territories have been free of drought since earlier this year, thanks to above-average rainfall replenishing water resources and elevating stream levels.
However, the heavy rains have also caused issues such as flooding, landslides, and crop losses in Puerto Rico, especially in high humidity areas like Vieques and Culebra. The U.S. Virgin Islands have seen similar problems with fruit trees and crops affected by the combination of high winds and rains. With the wet weather pattern expected to continue, farmers in both territories are preparing for ongoing moisture-related challenges.
Rainfall has been consistently above average, contributing to the replenishment of groundwater wells and aiding in the recovery of water levels to heights not seen in years. Despite the benefits of the rain for water resources, the agriculture sector is grappling with the consequences of high humidity, intermittent dry periods, and increased weed and fungi outbreaks, which have impacted crops such as lettuce, bananas, and plantains.
Looking ahead, the NOAA Climate Prediction Center anticipates above-normal precipitation to persist through the fall and early winter months, with the ongoing hurricane season posing additional risks to the region. While drought is not expected, the territories must navigate the challenges of excessive rainfall and potential storms.
Source: The Virgin Islands Consortium