Advisory No. 7: A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for the entire coast of Belize, including all of the cayes in Belizean water

At 6 pm local time, Tropical Storm Sara was located near latitude 16.2N, longitude 86.3W, or about 155 miles southeast of Belize City. Sara was moving to the west at 2 mph with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph. A continued slow westward motion is expected for the next day or so, followed by a slow west-northwestward motion late on Saturday.
On the forecast track, the center of Sara will continue to move near the northern coast of Honduras through early on Saturday, and then make landfall over southern Belize early on Sunday. Some strengthening is expected, and Sara could have maximum sustained winds of around 60 to 70 mph at landfall in Belize. A tropical storm warning remains in effect for the entire coast of Belize, including all the Cayes in Belizean waters.
The main threat from this system will be heavy rainfall. Rainfall totals of 2 to 6 inches have already been recorded since midday on Thursday, and an additional 4 to 8 inches with locally higher values are possible through to Sunday. This rainfall is resulting in flooding in some areas of the country. Strong, gusty winds are producing rough sea conditions. A small craft warning is currently in effect, so mariners operating small vessels are advised to seek or remain in safe harbour and not to venture out to sea. Strong winds may result in some minor damage to weak structures.
The country remains in Phase 3 – Red Two of the National Hurricane Plan. Two red flags with a black centre will be flown from signal centres.
The third phase, Red 2, shall be deemed to be in operation following such a declaration by NEMO when a tropical storm or hurricane appears likely to make landfall within 36 hours in a specific area of warning.
Hazards Expected to Affect Belize:
-Excess Rainfall – 2 to 6 inches have already been recorded and an additional 4 to 8 inches with locally higher values are possible, which can result in significant and life-threatening flooding.
-High Wind – Winds of up to 60 to 70 miles per hour are possible within the impact area. This may result in damage to structures, crops, and trees.
-Storm Surge – A storm surge of 1 to 3 feet is possible in areas of onshore flow just to the north of where the centre of the system moves inland.
Flood Forecast:
-Flood Warning remains in effect for the Central and Northern Region – Rio Hondo, Macal, Mopan, and Belize Rivers. The San Roman and San Antonio Roads in the Orange Walk District remain flooded.
Note:
-All interests, especially those in Southern Belize, MUST pay close attention and need to prepare emergency plans now.
-Persons living in areas under Flood Warning MUST remain vigilant and be prepared to implement emergency plans as necessary.
-Continue to update your family emergency plans and be prepared to put these into action. Check your emergency food, water, and medical supplies in case you have to shelter in place or move to a shelter. Check on the elderly and people with disabilities, and safeguard your pets.
-Shelters in affected areas will be opened if required.
-The public is advised to continue to clear drains to reduce the risk of flooding.
-Interests in the agriculture and fisheries sector are asked to monitor closely and are asked to be prepared to implement their emergency plans. -Interests in the tourism sector are asked to keep visitors and guests informed of the status of TS Sara, and also be prepared to implement their emergency plans.
-Business owners are asked to update their business continuity plans and to be prepared to implement them. Business owners are also being asked to ensure the safety of their employees.
Water taxis across the country are advised to continue monitoring the system and to remain in contact with the Belize Port Authority.
-Seaports are advised to continue monitoring the system and to remain in contact with the Belize Port Authority.
-Organizers of public events are advised to postpone their events until the ALL CLEAR is given in the interest of public safety.
-All motorists are asked to drive with extreme care to avoid accidents due to slippery road conditions. Listen to advisories from national authorities for the latest on road conditions.
Residents are advised to continue monitoring this system very closely and to follow official information coming from national authorities and the Met Service. Countrywide, all NEMO district emergency operations centres remain on alert. NEMO’s hotline is 936.
NEMO reminds everyone that it is still hurricane season, and staying safe should remain a top priority. Ensure your emergency plans are up to date, stock up on essential supplies, and stay informed about weather updates from reliable sources. Let’s work together to keep our community safe and prepared.