Tag:
Atlantic Ocean
Environment
Sargassum a challenge once again
The return of sargassum to the shores of Ambergris Caye is once again a challenge. One of the reasons speculated for the increase is the windier days. According to the National Meteorological Service of Belize, moderate easterly airflow exists, blowing the seaweed to shore. Recent studies by the University of South Florida Optical Oceanography Laboratory show that the overall sargassum quantity in the Atlantic Ocean doubled from December to January (8.7 million tons), again setting a record previously observed in January, noting 6.5 million tons in 2018.
Community and Society
San Pedro Town Council to enforce the removal excess signage from public areas
San Pedro Town Council saw the need for the regulation as these signs can be dangerous in the case of a natural disaster like a hurricane. The Mayor stated that not only can they be hazardous, but the saturation of advertisement posters can make an area look unattractive. Nuñez reminded the public that such practice is allowed on private property and not in public places.
Weather
2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season starts early; another active season predicted
Although the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season (June to November) is less than a month away, the first tropical wave has been detected off the west coast of Africa. Weather experts say it’s not surprising to see systems forming outside of the season, and they usually do not pose a significant threat. This year’s hurricane period is predicted to be an above-average season with 19 named storms, with nine expected to become hurricanes and four of them becoming major hurricanes. An average hurricane season usually comprises of 14 named storms.
Environment
Considered the greatest single threat to the Caribbean, Sargassum is blamed for dead fish on Ambergris Caye
The influx of Sargassum seaweed has been accumulating along the coast of Ambergris Caye and nearby islands for the past several weeks. The thick accumulation of these sea plants on the coastline is apparently causing detrimental effects on certain fish species as residents have reported dead fish along the shores.