What you need to know
— What: An active Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is producing scattered showers and thunderstorms, particularly across the southern half of Trinidad. A surge in low-level winds is also forecast across T&T today.
— Where: Peak rainfall totals are forecast across the southern and eastern halves of Trinidad, with rainfall totals between 12.5 and 25 millimeters, and localized totals across southern Trinidad ranging between 25 and 75 millimeters. Across the remainder of Trinidad, up to 30 millimeters of rainfall is forecast, and across Tobago, up to 20 millimeters is forecast. Gusty winds (45-55 km/h) are likely to favor Tobago and northern Trinidad during and ahead of heavy showers/thunderstorms across both islands.
— When: The TTMS issued the late-notice Adverse Weather Alert at 7:48 AM (initially called a “Severe Weather Alert” but functionally an “Adverse Weather Alert”), and quickly changed the name. It goes into effect at 9:00 AM on Saturday, July 18th, 2026, and remains in effect through 5:00 PM on Saturday, July 18th, 2026. Additional rainfall is likely on Sunday, when a fast-moving Tropical Wave (27) is forecast to move across the region.
— Impacts: The primary hazards will be street/flash flooding and localized ponding in heavy downpours. Highest street/flash-flooding chances are across flood-prone areas across the southern and eastern halves of Trinidad. Gusty winds are possible in heavy showers and thunderstorms, generally up to 55 km/h. These wind gusts, combined with heavy rainfall, may lead to fallen trees/utility poles/lines and lines, as well as landslides, localized wind damage, and agitated seas. Impactful flash flooding or short-lived riverine flooding is not expected.
— What Should You Do: Motorists and residents in areas prone to flooding or landslides should remain alert and exercise caution. Be aware of your surroundings and changing weather conditions as you go about your daily activities. Take necessary precautions to mitigate potential impacts. Monitor official weather updates. If you encounter flood waters, turn around. If you hear thunder, head indoors.
Latest Alerts
Active ITCZ Trigger Adverse Weather Alert For Trinidad
Trinidad and Tobago is NOT under any tropical storm or hurricane threat, watch, or warning at this time.
The Adverse Weather Alert
The TTMS issued the late-notice Adverse Weather Alert at 7:48 AM (initially called a “Severe Weather Alert” but functionally an “Adverse Weather Alert”), and quickly changed the name. It goes into effect at 9:00 AM on Saturday, July 18th, 2026, and remains in effect through 5:00 PM on Saturday, July 18th, 2026, for Trinidad, particularly southern regions of the island.
This adverse weather event is likely, according to the TTMS:
- There is a high potential for heavy showers and thunderstorms associated with the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Significant rainfall accumulations are likely, particularly in southern Trinidad.
- Impacts: Street flooding, flash flooding, and localized ponding are likely to occur. There is an increased risk of landslides and landslips along hillsides. Gusty winds may occur near heavy showers/thunderstorms and may cause a temporary agitation of sea conditions. ALL marine interests should exercise caution!
The alert’s color indicates the event’s severity and the likelihood of its occurrence. Currently, the alert level is Yellow. This means the hazards are likely and the impacts are moderate for this particular alert. You should be aware of the hazards in your area, which include street or flash flooding, gusty winds exceeding 45 km/h to 55 km/h, falling trees, landslides, and agitated seas.
A moderate Adverse Weather Alert can result in possible injuries and behavioral changes, which are necessary to ensure safety. Minor property damage may also occur, temporarily disrupting income-earning activities and affecting several communities.
The Met Office advises the public that motorists and residents in areas prone to flooding or landslides should remain alert and exercise caution. Be aware of your surroundings and changing weather conditions as you go about your daily activities. Take necessary precautions to mitigate potential impacts. Monitor official weather updates.
