Meteorologist addresses fisherfolk concerns over high winds

The nation’s chief meteorologist on Wednesday sought to reassure fisherfolk in Oistins that while wind speeds during the first quarter of the year were above the 30-year average, they remain within normal seasonal variations.

Sabu Best, director of Barbados Meteorological Services responded to concerns raised by Oistins fish vendors that high winds were hampering fishers’ ability to ply their trade.

Best told Barbados TODAY: “The winds throughout January, February, and March were, on average, higher than the 30-year average. However, I would hesitate to use the term ‘unusual.’ This period does typically see an increase in wind speeds as the pressure gradient strengthens with the subtropical high. There is also variance from year to year, and this year has certainly been on the higher end of that range.”

Best’s statement came in response to concerns voiced earlier this week by fisherfolk in Oistins, who reported difficulties going to sea due to high winds. According to them, the conditions have made it harder to secure their catch, especially during the peak Easter season.

But he emphasised that although wind speeds this year may appear higher than usual, they do not indicate anything abnormal. “The beginning of this year would not be classified as anomalous,” he said, citing historical data for context. “For instance, our record high for the month of February was set in 2023, with an average wind speed of 25 knots (46.3 km/h or 28.77 mph), which is noticeably higher than this year’s maximum average of 17 knots (31.48 km/h or 19.56 mph).”

In comparison, Best noted that January 2014 recorded an average maximum wind speed of 17 knots (31.48 km/h or 19.56 mph), while March 2022 saw a maximum of 18 knots (33.4 km/h or 20.71 mph). These records, he explained, help put current conditions into perspective and show that variations in wind speed are common from year to year.

The chief meteorologist also pointed out that wind speeds, though higher than average, are not the only factor affecting the fishing industry. “There are other variables to consider, such as sea surface temperatures, which remain relatively higher than average,” he said. “This, along with other scientific parameters, would require further research to fully understand the potential impacts on the fishing industry.”

While acknowledging the importance of wind conditions for local fishermen, Best stressed that more data is needed before drawing conclusions about their true effects on the sector. “Research would be required to truly understand the impacts on the fishing industry, if any,” he concluded.