Current Weather in CapHaïtien

In Haiti, weather awareness is deeply rooted in all aspects of life and culture against the backdrop of diverse climatic conditions and frequent natural disasters. Below, we organize the cultural and meteorological awareness regarding Haiti's climate by key themes.

Climate Diversity and Local Adaptation

Living Arrangements between Mountainous and Coastal Areas

• Understanding temperature differences due to elevation, the housing structure and lifestyle (food, shelter, etc.) are adapted for the cool mountainous regions and the hot, humid coastal areas.
• In mountainous areas, the timing of the dry and rainy seasons is incorporated into agricultural planning, while in coastal areas, measures to utilize sea breezes for cooling are common.

Preparation for Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

Community Disaster Preparedness Organizations

• Before the storm season, residents collectively reinforce their homes and check evacuation routes.
• There is a culture of sharing weather information centered around local radio stations and conducting evacuation drills and food stocking at the village level.

Agricultural Wisdom and Seasonal Transitions

Weather-Responsive Traditional Farming Practices

• Anticipating the onset of the dry season, drought-resistant legumes and corn are sown in advance.
• The planting of main crops and drainage measures are passed down orally across generations to align with the mid-point of the rainy season.

Traditional Rituals and Nature Worship

Vodou Ceremonies and Weather Beliefs

• Ceremonies related to rainmaking and harvest festivals are held throughout the year in conjunction with weather phenomena.
• A tradition of pilgrimage to sacred trees and springs to pray for stable weather is deeply ingrained.

Information Transmission and Urban Life Responses

Use of Mobile and Radio

• Receiving early warnings via short text messages through mobile phone networks is common.
• In urban areas, real-time weather reports are checked through social media and internet radio, aiding in commuting to work or school.

Summary

Haiti's climate culture has evolved through the integration of local environmental conditions, preparedness for natural disasters, traditional wisdom, and modern technology, nurtured through daily life and rituals.