Current Weather in Martinique

The cultural and meteorological awareness regarding the climate of Martinique is shaped by its natural environment unique to tropical islands and the intertwined history of indigenous and European cultures. The following are five key perspectives.

Diversity of Tropical Climate

Characteristics of Climate

• There are distinct dry (January to May) and rainy (June to December) seasons, with short, intense rains and torrential downpours recurring during the rainy season.
• The annual average temperature is about 25 to 30°C, with little seasonal temperature variation, but humidity changes significantly affect the perceived temperature.

Carnival and Weather Culture

Traditional Events and Weather

• Outdoor parades are central during the Carnival season from February to March. Performances of "Jambé" to pray for clear weather and street dancing are prevalent.
• Events are often held before the onset of the rainy season, making checking the weather forecast crucial for organization. When interruptions occur, makeshift rain shelter spaces have become part of the culture.

Daily Life and Weather Forecasting

Coexistence with Weather

• Local residents assess farming activities and fishing trips by observing the clouds' movements and mountain mists in the morning and evening. An oral "cloud-watching culture" persists.
• They routinely use free smartphone apps and local radio weather broadcasts, having a habit of closing shutters in anticipation of short rains.

Disaster Preparedness and Awareness

Preparedness for Hurricane Season

• From August to November, during hurricane season, local governments conduct evacuation drills and distribute information on hurricane developments.
• For homes, shutters and wooden louvers are permanently installed as wind protection, and preparations for power outages include keeping lanterns and food supplies.

Agriculture and Utilization of Meteorological Data

Crop Cultivation and Weather Management

• In sugarcane and banana cultivation, irrigation timing is adjusted based on rainfall data, with advancements in integrating data from weather observation stations with smartphones.
• In coffee-growing areas, there is an increasing trend of analyzing microclimates (elevation and wind direction) meticulously to enhance the quality of harvest periods.

Summary

The climate culture of Martinique is deeply intertwined with the daily lives of its residents, traditional events, and agriculture, reflecting a strong awareness of coexistence with nature.