Monthly Archives: May, 2026
Environment
$25 million invested in San Pedro’s fight against Sargassum
The ongoing influx of Sargassum continues to impact Belize's coastline, particularly tourism-dependent destinations such as San Pedro Town and Caye Caulker. Local and central government authorities have invested significant resources to manage the problem. On May 27th, it was confirmed that approximately $25 million has been spent on Sargassum mitigation and beach clean-up efforts in San Pedro alone, yet the challenge remains far from resolved.
Weather
Officials Warn Against Complacency Ahead of 2026 Hurricane Season
The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1st and runs through November 30th. On May 22nd, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted below-normal activity across the Atlantic basin. Despite the forecast, Belize, including communities such as San Pedro and Belize City, is being urged to remain prepared, as the National Meteorological Service warns that the country remains vulnerable throughout the entire season.
Community and Society
Island Rhythm Foundation Combines Music and Community Support at Launch Event
The Island Rhythm Foundation will officially launch in San Pedro with its fundraiser event, “Roots, Culture, Unity,” on Friday, July 10th, at The Island Jungle Restaurant and Bar. The event will feature live performances by Ras Indio, The Trees of Life, and Ernestine “Belize’s Soca Queen.” Tickets, VIP seating, and artist meet-and-greet opportunities will be available to attendees. The fundraiser is scheduled to run from 6PM to 11:30PM, with proceeds after event expenses supporting the foundation’s Shared Table school lunch initiative in San Pedro.
Community and Society
Saca Chispas Renovation Project Still Moving Forward; Current Artisan Market to be Relocated
The Honorable Louis Sylvestre Sporting Arena, popularly known as Saca Chispas, located in downtown San Pedro, was expected to undergo renovations earlier this year. However, work on the project has yet to begin. Area Representative Andre Perez said on Wednesday, May 27th, that the planned renovations, which will transform the popular public space into a multi-purpose complex, are still expected to move forward in collaboration with the Belize Tourism Board (BTB).
Community and Society
Tensions Reported Between Belizean and Mexican Tour Guides Near Xcalak
Recent tensions between Belizean and Mexican tour guides and fishers near the maritime border north of Ambergris Caye have sparked concerns among local tourism stakeholders. The friction, particularly in waters near Chetumal Bay and the Mexican community of Xcalak, reportedly centers around disputes over territorial boundaries and access to fishing and tour areas.
Education
Holy Cross Anglican School Continues Community Education Through ESL Initiative
Holy Cross Anglican School in the San Mateo subdivision continues to expand educational opportunities on Ambergris Caye through various community programs, including English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for adults. Dr. Aileen Hale, a former Fulbright Specialist with the University of Belize, initiated the program after recognizing a need for adult English classes on the island.
Government
San Pedro General Hospital Faces Delays and Rising Construction Costs, but Construction Presses Ahead
Construction of the San Pedro/Caye Caulker General Hospital, south of San Pedro Town, continues amid reports of projected cost overruns. Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez addressed the matter on Wednesday, May 27th, during a site tour showcasing the progress of the anticipated medical facility. While Perez confirmed that additional costs are being discussed, he stated that the projected overrun is nowhere near the reported $15 million. Although he could not provide an exact figure, Perez assured island residents that the state-of-the-art hospital, expected to become the second-largest medical facility in Belize, will be completed with a tentative opening date set for early 2027.
Government
Belize Halts High-Rise Construction in Four Coastal Areas
On May 21st, the Belize Cabinet approved a temporary six-month moratorium on the approval and construction of high-rise buildings in four coastal communities. The freeze applies to any structure exceeding 45 feet in height or more than three floors in Caye Caulker Village, Hopkins Village, the Placencia Peninsula, and Sittee River Village.