The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) says it is accelerating efforts to modernise its weather observation systems.
The update was given by Acting Director of the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service, Shakeer Baig, as the TTMS commemorated World Meteorological Day 2026 on Monday.
At the World Meteorological Day 2026 observance on Monday, he highlighted the critical role weather observations play in providing accurate forecasts and early warnings to the public.
“Every observation that we make, whether from the surface observations or from what you would have seen with respect to the release of the weather balloon, it observes the upper atmosphere. Whether it’s from the weather radars, the satellite, they all represent a vital piece of the puzzle in understanding our dynamic atmosphere.”
To strengthen that capability, Mr. Baig said the Met Service is upgrading its infrastructure and investing in more advanced technology to better monitor increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
“We are actively pursuing, with full support from our Parliamentary Secretary and our Ministers and, indeed, the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the installation of an X-band weather radar system to enhance our ability to observe high-resolution, short-range monitoring, particularly in intense rainfall events.”
He also revealed plans to establish a dedicated Meteorological Office at the University of Trinidad and Tobago’s Camden campus.
Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Public Utilities, Shivanna Sam, said the upgrades are ultimately about improving the quality of life for citizens.
“This is about people. It is about the mother who needs peace of mind, the farmer who depends on consistency, the young person planning their future, and the communities that depend on a healthy, protected environment. Importantly, as climate change continues to reshape weather patterns across the world, our responsibility now becomes even greater.”
World Meteorological Day is observed annually on March 23rd. The theme for 2026 is “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow.”