Land and Recourses

The island of Barbados is 34 km long and 22 km wide at its widest part and has a total area of 430 sq km (166 sq mi). The nearest island, Saint Vincent, is about 160 km (100 mi) to the west.

Geologically, Barbados differs from its neighbors in the Windward Islands, which were formed by volcanoes. Coral deposits and limestone form the surface of Barbados and are underlain by sedimentary rock. Water runs through the coral and limestone, rather than collecting on the surface, and so the island has hardly any rivers and little other surface water. Deep gullies in the limestone channel most rainwater down to the coast, and there are underground reserves of fresh water. Other limestone features are the island's caves with stalactites and stalagmites.

Barbados lacks mineral resources, but small quantities of petroleum and natural gas have been found. Petroleum production began in 1973. The petroleum and natural gas produced are used locally. The island has good clays and stone for making bricks and building blocks.

The climate of Barbados is tropical, tempered by sea breezes. The average annual temperature is about 26°C (about 79°F), and daily temperatures range from about 24°C to 30°C (about 76°F to 86°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but becomes somewhat heavier from June to November. The average annual rainfall ranges from 1,000 mm (about 40 in) on the coast to 2,300 mm (about 90 in) on the central ridge. Hurricanes occasionally strike the island.