Friday, May 29, 2026

Weather

NEMO Urges Early Hurricane Preparedness as Season Nears

With the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season set to begin on June 1st, government officials and emergency personnel are intensifying preparedness efforts across Belize while urging the public to work together and make early preparations. On May 11th, Hon. Henry Charles Usher, Minister of Public Service and Disaster Risk Management, met with National Emergency Coordinator Daniel Mendez and NEMO technical staff in Belmopan to review the country’s hurricane readiness plans and reinforce the importance of national unity and public awareness ahead of the season.

Government prepares to assist farmers ahead of potential drought

As summer approaches, the National Meteorological Service of Belize is warning of possible drought conditions in the coming weeks, as below-average rainfall is expected. This is due to the possible development of the climate phenomenon known as El Niño later this year. The agricultural sector is among the most vulnerable, and to help prepare farmers, the government has activated a mechanism to provide early cash assistance to reduce crop losses and safeguard livelihoods in this critical production sector.

Hurricane Hunter aircraft visits Belize ahead of hurricane season

As part of a Caribbean awareness tour, a United States Air Force Hurricane Hunter aircraft visited Belize on April 16th. The event, hosted by the National Meteorological Service of Belize, featured the WC-130J Hurricane Hunter, known as the Super Hercules, which landed at the Philip Goldson International Airport, where students and guests had the opportunity to view, tour, and learn about the important work these aircraft perform.

Belize Hosts Hurricane Hunters in the Caribbean Hurricane Awareness Tour 2026

Belize welcomed the United States Air Force 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, widely known as the “Hurricane Hunters,” as part of their annual Caribbean Hurricane Awareness Tour, a key regional initiative aimed at strengthening public understanding and preparedness ahead of the Atlantic Hurricane Season.

Belize Meteorological Service hosts three-day storm surge workshop

The National Meteorological Service of Belize, under the Ministry of Public Service and Disaster Risk Management, hosted a three-day storm surge workshop from April 14 to 16, 2026. Organized in collaboration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), its National Hurricane Center (NHC), and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR), the event is part of the Coastal Inundation Project for the Caribbean.

Belize Temperatures Trend Up, No Heatwave Expected

As the summer season approaches, there have been reports of an imminent heatwave that could affect the country. While heatwaves in Belize have been intense in the past, the National Meteorological Service of Belize has dismissed those claims, stating that there is currently no forecast for extreme heat in the coming days.

2026 Hurricane Season Names Released; Below-Average Activity Expected

Although the 2026 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season doesn't start until June 1st, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has already released the official list of storm names. Early forecasts indicate a potentially below-average season. The names assigned for this year include Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly, Edouard, Fay, Gonzalo, Hanna, Isaias, Josephine, Kyle, Leah, Marco, Nana, Omar, Paulette, Rene, Sally, Teddy, Vicky, and Wilfred.

National Meteorological Service Reports Record-Low February Temperatures

As low temperatures continue across Belize, recent cold fronts have pushed February temperatures to record levels, particularly in the northern regions. On February 2, the National Meteorological Service reported new record lows in the north, with unusually cold conditions also observed in western districts and the Cayes. The coldest temperatures were recorded in Libertad Village, Corozal District, and Gallon Jug, Orange Walk District, where thermometers dropped to 41.7°F.

Belize Spared as 2025 Hurricane Season Concludes

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season has officially ended, and once again, Belize has avoided any direct storm impacts. Although the basin experienced several powerful systems, including hurricanes that quickly intensified into major storms, none traveled toward Belize, protecting the country from significant weather effects.

Rainy weather to continue in most parts of the country

The National Meteorological Service reported on Thursday, November 13th, that damp and unstable conditions will continue to influence rainy weather over the next two days. The forecast calls for additional rain and isolated thunderstorms. As such, excessive rainfall is possible over northern, coastal, and offshore areas of the country. The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) has advised residents in flood-prone areas countrywide to stay alert, monitor updates, and follow official advisories.

Hurricane Melissa brings devastation to Jamaica and other Caribbean nations

Category 5 Hurricane Melissa made landfall in southwestern Jamaica on Tuesday, October 28th, before moving north over eastern Cuba and parts of Haiti, leaving a trail of destruction across the Caribbean. The powerful storm brought catastrophic flooding, landslides, and sustained winds of up to 185 miles per hour, tearing roofs from buildings, uprooting trees, and devastating infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism in its path.