Abstract:
The study is based upon the concept that climatology
cannot be divorced from the dynamics of weather. An attempt is
made to outline the meteorological framework of this region of
the tropics. The rainfall of Trinidad is then discussed within
this framework. The mean annual distribution of rainfall over
the island forms a basis for the discussion of monthly distributions.
Seasonal variation is pointed out and related to broad scale migrations
of the subtropical anticyclones and the equatorial trough.
The dual rainfall maximum occurring during the wet season is, in
turn, related to the synoptic scale patterns of this season.
Distribution is then examined with reference to the moist layer,
wind direction and speed. Diurnal distribution is treated in
detail and the mechanisms giving rise to the well-defined distribution
patterns are discussed. Finally some attention is paid to
shower amounts and distribution. In conclusion the rainfall of
the island is summarized by relating the seasonal variations to
the broadscale meteorological background and the actual distribution
to the local scale influences.
