Thursday, September 18, 2025

Accidents & Disasters

Is Belize prepared for a Tsunami? Actions to Take in the Event of a Tsunami

Earthquakes are uncommon in Belize, and scientists indicate that the country has the lowest exposure to earthquake hazards compared to other nations in Central America. However, tremors can still be felt when earthquakes occur in the region, which may trigger tsunami warnings. In the event of such an alert, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) advises residents living along the Cayes and other coastal areas to move away from the sea, seek higher ground, or relocate to the second story of a building. Additionally, people are urged to avoid glass windows, turn off butane tanks and all gas valves, and rely solely on official resources for updates.

San Pedro Lions Club hands over more monetary donations to fire victims

On January 24th, the San Pedro Lions Club provided additional monetary assistance to the victims of the December 29th fire. The club has diligently organized fundraisers and successfully raised a total of $8,000, which was distributed among the affected families.

PM Proposes Non-Bailable Offense for Drunk Driving Amid Rising Traffic Accidents

The Prime Minister of Belize, Honorable John Briceño, has proposed significant changes to the legal framework regarding drunk driving, suggesting that it be classified as a non-bailable offense. This initiative arises from increasing concerns about the alarming rise in traffic accidents associated with alcohol consumption, particularly in tourist-heavy areas such as San Pedro Town.

December fire victims receive humanitarian assistance

The island community continues to assist the 12 families who lost everything in the December 29th fire south of San Pedro Town. On Friday, January 10th, San Pedro Town Council members, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), the Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez, and volunteers delivered humanitarian aid to the victims.

USD100,000 in Support for Belizean Farmers Impacted by Flooding

The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), which operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Blue Economy and Disaster Risk Management, and the Belize Livestock Producers’ Association (BLPA) announce the launch of an initiative to assist cattle farmers in the Belize River Valley and Crooked Tree who Tropical Storm Sara impacted. This project is made possible through the generous contribution of USD 100,000 from the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Belize.

Humanitarian efforts for December fire victims continue

Efforts to assist the twelve families who lost everything in the fire on December 29th are ongoing in San Pedro Town. The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) and local groups such as the Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye, churches, and the San Pedro Lions Club have been collecting clothing and monetary donations.

American teenager who lost her leg in shark attack shares her experience

Fifteen-year-old tourist Annabelle Carlson from Colorado, USA, was severely injured in a shark attack during a diving trip off the coast of Belize in August 2024. The attack, which occurred at the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, resulted in her losing her right leg. The incident also left her with injuries to her hands. After months of recovery, Carlson spoke to the media houses in her country about her experience showing resilience and her passion for the ocean.

A morning fire in San Pedro leaves a dozen families homeless

A large fire in the early hours of Sunday, December 29th, south of San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye, has displaced 12 families. The blaze destroyed two wooden structures and a metal-framed garage. Authorities are investigating the incident as a possible act of arson. As part of the investigation, a female suspect is currently in custody.