Carrefour Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Haiti

Summer (June-September)

Summer in Carrefour is characterized by hot and humid conditions. The average temperature hovers around 86°F (30°C) during the day, but it can often rise into the 90s (32°C). Nights are slightly cooler, with temperatures typically dropping to around 76°F (24°C). The humidity levels are high throughout the summer, making it feel even hotter than the actual temperature. Rainfall is common during this time of year, and thunderstorms can occur frequently.

Winter (December-March)

Winters in Carrefour are relatively mild compared to other parts of the world. The average temperature during the day is around 78°F (26°C), while nights are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 64°F (18°C). The humidity levels are lower during this time of year, making it feel more comfortable. Rainfall is less common in the winter, but it can still occur occasionally.

Carrefour’s Climate: A Tropical Oasis

Carrefour, located in the southern region of Haiti, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The average annual temperature hovers around 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit), providing a pleasant climate for its inhabitants and visitors. The warm temperatures are attributed to Carrefour’s proximity to the Caribbean Sea, which influences the region’s weather patterns. Additionally, the town experiences approximately 2,500 hours of sunshine annually, making it a sun lover’s paradise.

Seasonal Variations: An Endless Summer

Throughout the year, Carrefour experiences minimal temperature variations. The hottest months typically fall between May and October, with average temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). During these months, the humidity levels rise, creating a muggy and tropical atmosphere. Conversely, the coolest months occur between December and February, with average temperatures dropping to around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit). This period offers a respite from the intense heat, providing a more comfortable climate for outdoor activities. Despite the slight variations, Carrefour’s temperatures remain consistently warm, ensuring an endless summer-like experience for its residents and tourists alike.

Cloud Types and Characteristics

Carrefour, Haiti, experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The region is typically characterized by high humidity and consistent rainfall throughout the year. The cloud cover in Carrefour is dominated by cumulus and cirrus clouds. Cumulus clouds are puffy and have a distinct cauliflower-like appearance. They are typical of fair weather conditions and can bring occasional showers or thunderstorms. Cirrus clouds, on the other hand, are thin and wispy, indicating high altitude and stable atmospheric conditions. They often appear as delicate streaks or feathers in the sky and do not produce precipitation.

Seasonal Variations

The cloud cover in Carrefour varies throughout the year. During the wet season (May to October), cloud cover is more extensive and persistent due to increased moisture in the atmosphere. Cumulus clouds are more prevalent, bringing frequent showers and thunderstorms. The dry season (November to April) experiences reduced cloud cover and greater sunshine. Cirrus clouds become more common, indicating drier and more stable conditions. However, occasional cold fronts may bring in nimbus clouds, which produce steady rainfall and can persist for several days before clearing.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Carrefour, Haiti, experiences distinct seasonal precipitation patterns influenced by its tropical monsoon climate. During the wet season, which typically spans from April to October, the city receives abundant rainfall, with the peak occurring in May and September. Heavy downpours are frequent during this period, contributing to a significant portion of the annual precipitation. In contrast, the dry season, from November to March, is characterized by relatively low rainfall. January and February are typically the driest months, with occasional showers providing intermittent relief.

Total Annual Precipitation

The average annual precipitation in Carrefour is substantial, reaching approximately 1,400 millimeters (55 inches). This amount of rainfall exceeds that of many regions in the United States and Europe. The consistent rainfall throughout the wet season ensures lush vegetation and provides vital water resources for the local population. However, the intense rainfall events during the wet season can also lead to flooding, which poses challenges for infrastructure and the well-being of the community.

Annual Rainfall Patterns

Carrefour, Haiti experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically runs from April to October, bringing heavy rainfall due to the influence of trade winds and tropical storms. During this period, intense downpours can cause flooding and mudslides, posing significant challenges to local infrastructure and livelihoods. The dry season, from November to March, brings drier conditions with occasional showers. Annual rainfall averages around 1,500 millimeters (59 inches), with variations occurring from year to year.

Impact on Agriculture and Water Resources

The seasonal rainfall patterns have a profound impact on Carrefour’s agriculture, which is the backbone of the local economy. Farmers heavily rely on rainfall for crop irrigation, with the wet season providing ample water for cultivation. However, excessive rainfall during the wet season can damage crops and wash away valuable topsoil. In contrast, the dry season often brings water shortages, forcing farmers to adopt irrigation methods to sustain their crops. Rainfall also plays a vital role in replenishing water resources, such as rivers, lakes, and groundwater aquifers. The wet season contributes significantly to these water sources, ensuring a steady supply of water for drinking, sanitation, and agricultural purposes.

Historical Anomaly: Snowfall in Carrefour, Haiti

On December 24, 2020, Carrefour, a bustling suburb of Port-au-Prince, witnessed an extraordinary meteorological event: snowfall. This occurrence marked a profound departure from Haiti’s tropical climate, where temperatures typically hover around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). The snowfall, albeit brief, left a surreal blanket of white across the city. The sight of snow-covered palm trees and children enjoying snowballs captivated the attention of locals and international observers alike, creating lasting memories amidst the poverty and challenges that define life in Haiti.

Cause of the Snowfall: A Rare Atmospheric Convergence

The snowfall in Carrefour was attributed to an unusual convergence of atmospheric conditions. A cold front from North America collided with a low-pressure system over the Atlantic Ocean, creating a band of precipitation that stretched across Haiti. As the cold front moved eastward, it cooled the air to such an extent that the moisture in the clouds condensed into snowflakes. These snowflakes then fell on Carrefour, resulting in the highly unusual wintery scene. While snowfall is not entirely unheard of in Haiti’s mountainous regions, it is exceedingly rare in densely populated areas like Carrefour, making this event both remarkable and memorable.

Climate in Carrefour, Haiti

Carrefour, Haiti, experiences a tropical monsoon climate. The city is characterized by hot and humid conditions all year round, with average temperatures ranging from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainfall is abundant, with the majority of precipitation occurring during the rainy season, which lasts from May to October. During this period, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are common, and the city is prone to flooding. The dry season, from November to April, is relatively drier but still experiences occasional showers.

Sun Exposure in Carrefour, Haiti

Carrefour, Haiti, receives an abundance of sunlight throughout the year due to its tropical location. The city experiences an average of 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, which translates to approximately 7.7 hours of sunshine per day. During the dry season, from November to April, sunlight is more intense and consistent, with fewer cloudy days. However, even during the rainy season, Carrefour still receives a significant amount of sunshine, and UV levels remain high. The high levels of sun exposure in Carrefour make it essential for residents and visitors to take precautions against sun damage, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.

History of Moon in Carrefour, Haiti

Moon, a bustling neighborhood in Carrefour, Haiti, has a rich and multifaceted history. The area was established in the early 20th century as a small village on the outskirts of the capital, Port-au-Prince. Over time, Moon expanded due to an influx of migrants seeking better opportunities. The neighborhood played a significant role during the Haitian Revolution, serving as a haven for rebels fighting against French colonial rule. Moon also witnessed the rise of popular music, with many renowned Haitian musicians emerging from this vibrant neighborhood.

Moon Today

Today, Moon is a densely populated area known for its vibrant culture and economic activity. It is a melting pot of different ethnicities, with residents hailing from various regions of Haiti and beyond. The neighborhood is home to a diverse array of businesses, including small shops, markets, and restaurants. Moon is also renowned for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues catering to the entertainment needs of the local population and visitors. Additionally, Moon has a strong sense of community, with numerous religious organizations, schools, and social groups contributing to its social fabric.

Climate Overview

Carrefour, Haiti experiences a tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The average annual temperature is around 25°C (77°F), with only minor variations between seasons. The warmest months are July and August, while the coolest months are January and February.

Humidity Levels

Humidity levels in Carrefour are consistently high, averaging around 75%. The humidity can reach up to 100% during the rainy season, which typically runs from April to November. The high humidity levels can make it uncomfortable for residents and visitors, especially during the hottest months. During the dry season, from December to March, humidity levels can drop somewhat, but they generally remain above 70%.

Wind Patterns in Carrefour, Haiti

Carrefour, a densely populated commune in Haiti, experiences a range of wind patterns throughout the year. The predominant wind direction varies seasonally, influenced by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). During the wet season (April to October), the ITCZ shifts northward, bringing with it southeasterly trade winds. These winds are typically moderate to strong, providing moisture and rainfall to the region.

Seasonal Variability of Wind Speed and Direction

In the dry season (November to March), the ITCZ retreats southward, resulting in a shift to northeasterly trade winds. These winds are generally weaker and less humid than the southeasterly trades. However, during the winter months, cold fronts from the north can occasionally bring strong northwesterly gusts accompanied by precipitation. The variability in wind speed and direction throughout the year affects various aspects of daily life in Carrefour, such as weather patterns, transportation, and agriculture.

Best time to visit in Carrefour, Haiti

The best time to visit Carrefour, Haiti, is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather in Carrefour is always hot and humid, but the dry season is more bearable than the rainy season, when the humidity is even higher and the streets are often flooded. The average temperature in Carrefour in November is 79 degrees Fahrenheit, and in April it is 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season lasts from May to October, and the average temperature during this time is 89 degrees Fahrenheit.

Carrefour is a bustling city with a rich culture. There are many things to see and do in Carrefour, including visiting the historic Fort Jacques, exploring the bustling markets, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Carrefour is also home to some of the best beaches in Haiti, and many people visit to relax and enjoy the sun and sand.

Potential for Solar Energy in Carrefour, Haiti

Carrefour, a densely populated commune in Haiti, faces significant challenges in meeting its energy needs. The country relies heavily on imported fossil fuels, which are expensive and subject to price fluctuations. Additionally, the electrical grid is unreliable, leading to frequent power outages that disrupt daily life and economic activity.

Solar energy offers a promising solution to these challenges. Carrefour has abundant sunshine throughout the year, making it an ideal location for solar installations. Solar panels can generate electricity without the need for fossil fuels, reducing dependence on imported energy and lowering energy costs. Furthermore, solar energy can be deployed in both grid-tied and off-grid systems, providing flexibility and resilience in the face of grid outages.

Challenges and Opportunities for Solar Energy Development

While the potential for solar energy in Carrefour is significant, several challenges need to be addressed for successful implementation. One major barrier is the high upfront investment cost of solar systems, which can be a deterrent for low-income households and businesses. Additionally, the lack of skilled labor and technical expertise in solar installations can hinder the development of the industry.

Despite these challenges, several opportunities exist to promote solar energy in Carrefour. The government can provide incentives and subsidies to encourage investment in solar installations. International organizations can support capacity building initiatives to train local technicians and installers. Moreover, community-based initiatives can raise awareness about the benefits of solar energy and facilitate the collective purchase of solar systems, reducing costs for individual households.

Terrain Structure

Carrefour, Haiti, is situated within the Cul-de-Sac Plain, a vast coastal lowland that extends from Port-au-Prince to the border with the Dominican Republic. The terrain of Carrefour is generally flat and low-lying, with elevations ranging from sea level to approximately 50 meters (164 feet) above sea level. The plain is bounded to the north by the mountainous Massif de la Selle and to the south by the Étang Saumâtre lake.

Geologic Features and Drainage

The geology of Carrefour is dominated by alluvial deposits, which are layers of sediment deposited by the Rivière Froide and its tributaries. These sediments consist primarily of sand, silt, and clay and are highly susceptible to erosion. The region’s topography has been shaped by the erosive action of the rivers and streams that flow through the area. The Rivière Froide and its tributaries have created a network of valleys and channels that dissect the plain, adding some topographic relief to the otherwise flat landscape. The Rivière Froide eventually discharges into Étang Saumâtre, a large hypersaline lake that lies to the south of Carrefour.

Jacmel Airport (JAK)

The nearest airport to Carrefour, Haiti is Jacmel Airport (JAK), located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) to the southeast. It is a small domestic airport that serves the cities of Jacmel and Carrefour, as well as the surrounding region. The airport has a single runway and is capable of handling small aircraft such as propeller planes and helicopters.

Flights and Airlines

Jacmel Airport primarily serves domestic flights operated by local airlines such as Caicos Express Airways and Sunrise Airways. There are regular flights connecting Jacmel to Port-au-Prince Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP), which is the main international gateway to Haiti. The flight from Jacmel to Port-au-Prince takes approximately 30 minutes. It is important to note that flight schedules and availability may vary depending on the season and airline, so it is recommended to check with specific airlines for the most up-to-date information on flights and fares.

Carrefour, Haiti: Overview

Carrefour, a densely populated area located on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, is a vibrant and bustling urban center. With a population of over 500,000 inhabitants, Carrefour is the second most populous municipality in Haiti after the capital. It serves as a major transportation hub and economic center for the southwestern region of the country. Despite its commercial significance, Carrefour has faced numerous challenges, including overcrowding, poverty, and inadequate infrastructure.

Carrefour’s Economic and Social Landscape

Carrefour is home to a diverse economy, with the informal sector playing a dominant role. Many residents work in small businesses, street vending, and other informal activities. The area’s main market, known as Marché de Carrefour, is a bustling hub of commerce, offering a wide range of goods and services. Carrefour also houses a significant industrial zone, with factories producing a variety of products, including textiles, food processing, and construction materials. Despite economic growth in recent years, Carrefour faces persistent challenges, including high unemployment, lack of access to adequate healthcare and education, and limited housing options for its growing population.