WILLEMSTAD – The strong winds affecting Curaçao and much of the Caribbean in recent weeks are being caused by an unusually large difference in atmospheric pressure between the Atlantic Ocean and northern Colombia, according to the Meteorological Department Curaçao.
Meteorologists say the weather pattern has created powerful trade winds and rough sea conditions across the region, prompting several special marine warnings in recent weeks because of dangerous conditions at sea.
According to Meteo, average wind speeds of approximately 35 kilometers per hour have been recorded, with gusts reaching around 50 kilometers per hour.
The weather service explained that the pressure difference currently affecting the Caribbean is stronger than normal for this time of year.
Meteo linked the situation to changes in the low-pressure system over northwestern Colombia, which is being influenced by the development of El Niño.
According to the meteorological service, these atmospheric changes are strengthening the trade winds throughout the Caribbean basin.
Historical climate data from Meteo shows that average wind speeds in May are normally around 33 kilometers per hour. The strongest wind gust ever recorded during the month of May on Curaçao reached 66 kilometers per hour.
The recent conditions have led to rough seas around the island, affecting marine activities, small boats, and coastal conditions.
Meteo expects the wind situation to gradually normalize by early June but says it continues monitoring weather developments around the clock.