ADVISORY NO. 1 TROPICAL STORM SARA

At 3 pm local time, tropical storm Sara was located near latitude 15.9N, longitude 83.5W, or about 330 miles east by south of Belize City. Sara was moving to the west at 10 mph with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. A westward motion at a slower forward speed is expected during the next couple of days. A slow west-northwestward motion is forecast by late Saturday.

On the forecast track, the center of Sara will move near the northern coast of Honduras during the next couple of days, and approach the coast of Belize on Sunday. Some strengthening is expected and Sara should have maximum sustained winds of around 50 mph at landfall in Belize. The main threat from this system will be heavy rainfall with totals of 5 to 10 inches with locally higher values. This could result in flooding. Strong gusty winds will result in rough sea conditions, so mariners are advised to stay alert and monitor the weather situation. Some coastal flooding is expected north of where the system makes landfall. Strong winds may result in some minor damage to weak structures.

Given this latest update, the Prime Minister, acting on the advice of the Chief Meteorological Officer and the National Emergency Coordinator, declares the Preliminary Phase of the National Hurricane Plan. One red flag will be flown at signal centres across the country. The Preliminary Phase shall be deemed to be in operation following the declaration by the Prime Minister after a tropical depression, tropical storm or hurricane is likely to make landfall within 72 hours.

Hazards Expected to Affect Belize-Excess Rainfall – Heavy rainfall (5 – 10 inches with locally higher values), which can result in localized flooding. High Wind – Winds of up to 50 to 60 miles per hour are possible within the impact area. This may result in damage to structures, crops and trees. Surf – Minor coastal flooding is possible in areas of onshore flow near 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 Districts remain flooded.
Note:
● Update your family and business emergency plans and be prepared to put these into action. Check your emergency food, water and medical supplies. Check on the elderly and people with disabilities.
● Shelters in affected areas will open if required.
● The public are advised to clear drains to reduce flooding.
● Interests in the agriculture and fisheries sector are asked to monitor closely. Interests in the tourism sector are asked to keep visitors and guests informed of the status of TS Sara.

Residents are advised to continue monitoring this system very closely and to follow official information coming from NEMO 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.