As mentioned in our earlier forecast, a surge in trade winds will produce windy to breezy conditions across Trinidad and Tobago this week, beginning today (Monday). Wind gusts exceeding 55 KM/H are likely, prompting the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service to issue a High Wind Alert for the country.
What you need to know
— What: A strong Atlantic high-pressure system is generating strong low-level winds (trade wind surge), up to 30 knots (55 KM/H), across the central Atlantic Ocean, which is forecast to begin affecting T&T from today through the remainder of the week. As a result, gusty winds (in excess of 55 KM/H) are highly likely (85% chance), particularly near rainfall.
— Where: Breezy conditions and gusty winds are possible across the country, with higher chances for impactful gusts across the northern and eastern halves of Trinidad, Tobago, and in elevated areas.
— When: Strong winds are forecast between Monday and Thursday, with peak gusts likely between Monday and Tuesday evenings.
— Impacts: Strong wind gusts are capable of causing roof damage, particularly to unsecured roofs, causing loose outdoor objects to become airborne, tents may jump, and can topple large but weaker trees and structures. Seas will become rough in open waters. A Hazardous Seas Alert is in effect.
— What Should You Do: Secure loose outdoor objects and livestock. In the event of showers, do not seek shelter under trees. Marine interests should also secure marine craft and exercise heightened caution during this period.
Latest Alert
Hazardous Seas Alert In Effect As Open Water Waves Reach 3.0m
High Wind Alert In Effect For T&T – Gusts May Exceed 55 KM/H
Trinidad and Tobago is NOT under any tropical storm or hurricane threat, watch, or warning at this time.
The High Wind Alert
The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service issued a High-Wind Alert (Yellow Level) on Monday at 10:04 AM. The alert retroactively went into effect from 10:00 AM Monday, January 20th, 2025, and continues through 6:00 PM Thursday, January 23rd, 2025, for both Trinidad and Tobago.
“There is a high potential (85%) for wind gusts in excess of 55km/h from today (20th) through Thursday (23rd). Breezy conditions are expected throughout the period with varying intensities. Strong gusts are mainly expected in the vicinity of showers, and although the stronger gusts may be brief, they are capable of displacing unsecured roofs and loose outdoor items and can even topple trees and weak structures. A Hazardous Seas Alert is in effect.” according to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service. This “alert” status considers the possibility of the event occurring. This high wind event is likely.
The alert’s color indicates the severity of the event and the probability of it occurring. Currently, the alert level is Yellow. This means that the hazard is likely, but the severity of impacts is moderate for this particular alert. You should be aware of the hazards in your area, mainly with gusty winds over 55 KM/H.
These include the toppling of potted plants and light objects outdoors falling over or becoming airborne. Larger but weaker trees may fall, causing roof damage or downing power lines and utility poles. Unsecured roofs may be damaged. These strong winds are forecast to agitate seas and reduce visibility in marine areas.
A moderate High Wind Alert can cause injuries, and behavioral changes are required to ensure safety. Property may be damaged, and income-earning activities may be temporarily disrupted. A couple of communities are affected.
The Met Office advises the public to secure loose items outdoors and livestock. Small craft operators should be alert for above-normal or choppy sea conditions in strong winds. The public should monitor weather conditions and updates from official sources.
