Weather
Islanders prepare as Hurricane Beryl approaches Belize; tropical storm warning issued
As the powerful Hurricane Beryl moves west-northwest across the Caribbean Sea at 22 miles per hour, a tropical storm warning has been issued from...
Weather
NEMO hosts press briefing in preparation for Hurricane Beryl
On Monday afternoon, July 1st, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), along with the Ministry of Disaster Risk Management and the National Meteorological Service of Belize, provided a press briefing on Hurricane Beryl. The powerful Category 4 storm, with 155 miles per hour winds, is hurtling through the southeastern Caribbean. While its current trajectory indicates it will make landfall north of Belize, there is still a high risk that the entire country could be impacted by Beryl’s heavy rain and gusty winds. Therefore, Belizeans are urged to have a plan of action and to follow only official sources regarding the development of the hurricane.
Government
Statement on NEMO Preparedness for Hurricane Beryl and Reports of Price Gouging
The Office of the Prime Minister, through the National Emergency Management Organization and all other relevant entities, remains vigilant and prepared as regards Hurricane Beryl, a potential threat to Belize in the week ahead.
Weather
National Emergency Management Organization District Coordinator prepared for Hurricane Season
The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially began on June 1st and will continue until November 30, 2024. The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) Belize Rural South collaborates with all government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to protect the lives and property of all residents.
Weather
First Tropical Storm of 2024 Hurricane Season named
On Wednesday, June 19th, the first named storm of the 2024 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season is forming in the western region of the Gulf of Mexico. The storm, named Alberto, has sustained winds of 40 miles per hour. According to the National Hurricane Center, the storm will move slowly to the west, approaching northeastern Mexico. The effects were also felt along the coast of Texas in the United States, with strong winds and heavy rain.
Weather
Experts predicate an active 2024 hurricane season
The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially opens on June 1st and runs until November 30th. Experts predict an unusually active cyclone and hurricane season between May and November, possibly the most devastating season in recent history. The National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) states the season begins on May 15th in the (Pacific Basin) and June 1st in the (Atlantic Basin). The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) handed down its official prediction for the season – its most alarming yet.
Local News
Drought affecting Belize may cause further power rationing
The country is currently experiencing a severe drought, which is not only affecting the agricultural sector but also threatening energy as well. For the past weeks, the water level at the Fortis Dam hydroelectric reservoir has been dwindling, and its management has stated that there will be only enough water for about two more weeks.
Weather
Saharan dust causes hazy skies over Ambergris Caye
The sky over San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, has been hazy and dusty for the past few days because of the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) from the Sahara Desert in northern Africa. This phenomenon is also responsible for the current heat wave. The National Meteorological Service has advised the public to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities as much as possible, particularly during afternoon hours.