The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) in collaboration with the National Meteorological Service hereby informs the general public that Tropical Storm Franklin has formed. Franklin is located near 16.4 North Latitude and 83.0 West Longitude or some 100 miles north of the Nicaraguan/Honduras border. Franklin is moving to the West-North-West at 13mph with maximum sustained winds near 40 miles per hour. The projected tracks from the different models suggest that this system could impact anywhere from northern Belize to areas along the Yucatan Peninsula late tomorrow evening or Tuesday morning. The forecast is for heavy rainfall over Belize which is likely to cause flash floods. We can expect as much 3-6 inches of rainfall with possible higher amounts, gusty winds, and severe thunderstorms.
A tropical storm watch remains in effect for Belize City, and effective first light (5:30 a.m.) tomorrow a tropical storm warning will be in effect for all communities north of Belize City up to the Corozal district.
• The general public is advised to make the necessary arrangements to protect life and property. At risk families are encouraged to voluntarily move away from the coast to weather the storm in a safe, dry place. If you are exposed to bad weather conditions and flooding move to a shelter or higher grounds, with family or friends. Check up on family members and neighbours who are in need of assistance. Do not wait until it’s too late to take action. People in those areas under a Tropical Storm Watch and Warning are strongly encouraged to put their family emergency plan into action.
• Fishers and seagoing members of the public are advised to seek or remain in safe harbor. People on the cayes are encouraged to take the necessary actions to protect life and property.
• Farmers are encouraged to attend to their crops and animals to reduce losses.
• When it is raining, drivers are urged to drive with extreme caution to avoid accidents due to slippery road conditions.
NEMO emergency coordinators can be reached as follows:
i. Corozal, Mr. Williard Levy at 623 0237;
ii. Orange Walk, Ms. Suliema Celiz at 605 5046, or Mr. Aragon at 636 6094;
iii. Belize District, Mr. Lionel Tillett at 6154834 and Mr. Kevin Pollard at 621 2275;
iv. San Pedro, Ms. Vanessa Parham at 632 3698;
v. Belize City, Ms. Timrose Augustine at 600 8672, or Councillor Willoughby (BZCC) at 6309793
vi. Belmopan, Ms. Clare Moody at 630 9791;
vii. Cayo, Mr. Al Westby at 630 3224 or Mr. Johnny Ramclam at 625 2526;
viii. Stann Creek, Mr. Keith Emmanuel at 615 9711; and
ix. Toledo, Mr. Kenton Parham at 630 9787.
x. The NEMO Emergency Hotline is 936.
The public is asked to pay attention to the official advisories from the National Meteorological Service and NEMO.
:-End of Release:-
