(Oranjestad)— According to the latest international climatological information, there is a possibility that the natural phenomenon El Niño will continue to develop during the coming months of 2026–2027 in an extraordinary event that could bring dangerous and even devastating effects to certain regions. Although El Niño forms in the Pacific Ocean, its effects can be felt in different parts of the world, including the Caribbean.
Therefore, the Department of Public Health (DVG) is informing the community that Aruba may experience higher-than-normal temperatures, drier conditions, and an increased risk of heat-related health problems in the months ahead.
High temperatures can increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, fatigue caused by heat, and other health complications, especially for:
- Young children
- Elderly persons
- People with chronic health conditions
- Pregnant women
- People who work outdoors in the sun
DVG encourages the community in the coming months to:
- Drink water frequently throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
- Avoid intense physical activity during the hottest hours of the day (11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.).
- Wear light-colored, lightweight clothing.
- Use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and reapply it throughout the day.
- Check on vulnerable family members and neighbors.
- Follow official information from DVG and the Aruba Meteorological Service for updates.
DVG will continue monitoring the possible effects of El Niño on public health and animal health in order to continue providing information, advice, guidance, and attention to the various at-risk groups in our community.
For more information, like the Directie Volksgezondheid DVG Aruba Facebook page, follow @directie_volksgezondheid_aruba on Instagram, follow the WhatsApp Channel, receive updates through the Aruba Health App, visit www.dvg.aw, call 522-4200, or email servicio@dvg.aw.
