Comparison of Drought Indices in the Rio Minho Watershed, Jamaica

Abstract

The impact of extreme weather events on the agricultural sector in Jamaica is a reason for concern, as it threatens food security and the livelihood of many small farmers. Considering the most recent projections for a reduction in rainfall, along with higher temperatures due to climate change, there is the need for studies concerning drought at the watershed level, as the phenomenon is more localized in comparison to other events. With this in mind, the aim of this study is to compare meteorological and hydrological drought within the Rio Minho Watershed between 1970 and 2014. Results show periods of wet conditions followed by dry conditions for both meteorological and hydrological data. While meteorological drought dominates in terms of occurrence, hydrological drought demonstrated a longer duration. Results from this study will provide a greater understanding as it relates to the drought conditions and the need for water harvesting.