On Thursday, November 14th, Tropical Storm Sara formed just north of the coast of Honduras. The storm has maximum sustained winds of 40 miles per hour and is moving west at a speed of 12 miles per hour. According to the National Meteorological Service of Belize, the tropical storm is expected to impact the area late Sunday or Monday morning, bringing heavy rainfall.
Chief Meteorologist Ronald Gordon stated that the weather system is expected to stall north of Honduras for approximately 24 to 36 hours before moving northwest towards Belize. According to forecasts, the southern part of the country will experience the impact of Tropical Storm Sara, with heavy rainfall anticipated throughout the region. “There is a possibility that the storm could come ashore a bit stronger,” Gordon said. “If it comes as a storm with sustained winds of 70 miles per hour, it will be around five miles lower than the threshold for a category 1 hurricane.”
On Thursday, Belizeans across the country woke up to cloudy skies as inclement weather approached. The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Sara and has activated its response plans. National Emergency Coordinator Daniel Mendez stated, “We have been preparing for the storm at NEMO. All of our emergency operation centers across the country are currently being set up. The local branches are meeting to discuss operational plans.” Mendez emphasized that they will continue to monitor the storm and respond as needed. Belizeans are encouraged to stay informed about the storm, and those living in flood-prone areas should keep an eye on water levels in their communities. NEMO will also advise the public about the opening of shelters if necessary.
The formation of Tropical Storm Sara in late November is unusual, as tropical storm activity typically declines during this month. The most recent storm to occur in November was Category 1 Hurricane Lisa, which made landfall near Belize City on November 2, 2022.
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