During the summer and fall seasons of last year, the Dominican Republic was crossed by 36 tropical waves, which left in their wake intense rains, thunderstorms and adverse atmospheric conditions.
Some of these waves evolved into cyclonic systems, affecting not only the country, but also other nations in the Caribbean and Central American region.
Chronology of tropical waves
The activity began early, with the first tropical wave leaving the coast of Africa and crossing the country May 26followed by another 29 of the same month. Over the following months, the frequency of these systems increased significantly:
- June: 8 tropical waves were recorded, marking the beginning of an active season.
- July: Another 8 waves crossed the country, some observed for their potential for cyclonic development.
- August: It was the most active month, with 9 tropical waves, including several with a high probability of intensification.
- September: 5 tropical waves were reported, several monitored due to their possible evolution.
- October: 6 tropical waves impacted the region, one of which became a tropical storm.
- November: Closing the season, 2 tropical waves crossed the national territory.
Relevant waves and their impact
- June 26: A tropical wave in the south of the country was monitored for having a 10% chance of reaching the category of tropical cyclone.
- July 4 and 16: Waves with possibilities of cyclonic development (10% and 20%, respectively).
- August 1 and 6: These waves showed an increase in the probabilities of cyclonic development, reaching up to 30%.
- October 19: A tropical wave crossed north of the Dominican Republic, becoming Tropical Storm Oscar near the Bahamas. This system affected Cuba on October 20 and 21 with strong winds and rain.
- November 10-12: The last tropical wave of the season generated intense rains in Santo Domingo, San Cristóbal and Peravia. The system was later classified as a potential tropical cyclone on November 13 and evolved into a tropical storm Sarah the day 14affecting areas near Belize in Central America.
Regional impact
Of the tropical waves that crossed the Dominican territory, at least 6 gave rise to the formation of tropical cyclones that affected countries such as Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica, Belize, Mexico and other Caribbean islands. This shows the connection between these phenomena and climate vulnerability throughout the region.
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Meteorological context
The 2024 hurricane season was influenced by a transitioning global climate pattern The Girl toward The Child. This change typically leads to an increase in the intensity and frequency of tropical cyclones in the Atlantic, which partly explains the significant number of tropical waves observed.
Preventive measures and future challenges
The impact of these tropical waves highlights the need to strengthen the country’s infrastructure and optimize disaster monitoring and response systems. During the season, authorities issued early warnings in several provinces, preventing greater human and material losses. However, sustained investment is required to reduce the vulnerability of communities exposed to flooding, landslides and other effects of weather events.
Tropical wave activity during 2024 made clear the importance of being prepared for the constant threat posed by these systems. As climate change continues to alter weather patterns, it is crucial that the Dominican Republic and neighboring countries work together to mitigate its impacts and ensure the safety of their citizens.
