St. Kitts and Nevis is experiencing worsening drought conditions, with rainfall approximately 50 percent below normal for the year.
The Meteorological Services recorded about 234 millimetres of rainfall between January and June, compared with the long-term average of more than 400 millimetres.
Meteorological technician Vincia Benjamin linked the dry spell to El Niño conditions and frequent Saharan dust, which can restrict cloud development and rainfall.
The Federation remains under a short-term drought warning through September and a long-term warning through November. Officials say the conditions are affecting crops and livestock pastures, increasing bushfire risks and placing additional pressure on water supplies.
While tropical systems could bring some relief, sustained rainfall will be needed to significantly improve conditions. Residents are being urged to conserve water as monitoring continues.