Weather - Channel 5 Belize

What Can Be Done About Belize’s Excessively Hot Classrooms?

2024 is officially one of the hottest years in Belizean history, with the sweltering heat becoming almost unbearable, especially for those stuck in poorly ventilated spaces like classrooms. As climate change continues to push temperatures higher, the need for cooler, safer learning environments is more urgent than ever. We chatted with Prime Minister John Briceño about what can be done to tackle this issue in schools across the country. Here’s what he had to say.

Prime Minister John Briceño

“That’s a massive problem. As I said earlier, many people don’t know, but I grew up in a, for a few years, in a touch house with my mother. And it was made of pimenta and also saskab. We had a cement floor. It was always cool. The Mayans knew what materials to use to be able to keep us cool. Cement, cement hold to heat. Zinc translates heat. And so, we have to find a way we can try to start to move towards that. Probably putting more insulation into the into the roofs. But even the types of windows that we use. If you look in the rural areas in Mexico and in Guatemala, they don’t have louvers. They have this huge room, they opened up the entire side of the, so the air can flow in easier. That’s what we have to do. See these, how these are some things like this? What we have to do to the other side, so that the air can circulate. So, there’s certain things that we need to do. I wish I could tell you we have the money to do everything, but we have to start to, to think. We need to adapt. I, during between 1998 and 2007, was the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment and whenever I’d go abroad, I used to get very upset when they were telling us about adaptation. I’d say, why should we adapt? We did not create this problem. We need to build some sort of resiliency. But no, unfortunately, we’ve passed resiliency. We have to adapt. The heat that’s going, I mean, it was the heat that we had earlier this month, this year. It’s a heat that I’ve never experienced in Belize, so that’s the reality, and we need to try to see how best we can address these issues.”

NHC Monitors a Low-Pressure System Near Bermuda

As Hurricane Milton makes its way over Florida tonight, a low-pressure system near Bermuda poses little threat of becoming yet another tropical storm in the state’s path. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), a low-pressure system is located a few hundred miles south-southwest of Bermuda, just over the state of Florida.

The circulation of the system is becoming increasingly elongated, and environmental conditions are becoming “less favourable for any tropical or subtropical development,” the NHC reported. Its chances of developing into a cyclone have fluctuated between 20% and 40%, with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) now estimating a 30% likelihood of further development within the next 48 hours. However, forecasters indicate that those odds are decreasing.

“Upper-level winds are expected to become too strong for further development tonight or into Thursday,” the NHC reported this afternoon.

The next tropical storm to form will carry the name Nadine.

Belizeans in the Path of Powerful Hurricane Milton

Belizeans in the Path of Powerful Hurricane Milton

Hurricane Milton is on track to become one of the most destructive hurricanes in west-central Florida’s history, according to the National Hurricane Center. In NHC’s latest reports, the storm’s centre is moving northeast at 17 mph. It has maximum sustained winds of approximately 145 mph, making it a Category 4 storm. “Forecast to make landfall on the Florida Gulf Coast late tonight as a dangerous major hurricane,” said the NHC.

Milton’s wind speed increased by 95 mph within 24 hours and 80 mph in just 12 hours on Monday. As of late Tuesday, Milton boasted maximum sustained winds of 160 mph. These developments have made Milton the fifth-strongest storm in Atlantic history.

While some weakening is expected before landfall, it remains a major hurricane. Milton is forecasted to make landfall late Wednesday, with impacts beginning for Florida as early as Wednesday afternoon.

Predictions indicate storm surges could reach 10 to 15 feet in some areas of Florida. Additionally, the threat of tornadoes persists across central and southern Florida.

Ray Gongora, a Belizean living in Pembroke Pines, Florida, shared the emotional stress the hurricane is causing. “This is a monster. And because of that, it’s even affecting us emotionally. We are very anxious about the power that this storm will have and the effect it will have upon us. Many Belizeans who are living on the coast in Tampa, especially Naples, have moved inland with other Belizeans.”

Gongora explained that residents, including himself, have been going to areas where sand and bags are provided to prepare for Hurricane Milton. Many bring their own shovels to speed up the process. After filling the sandbags, they take them home and place them at their doors in an effort to prevent water from entering their homes.

The Honorary Consulate of Belize in Florida has provided a contact number for those needing shelter or assistance. For shelter updates, residents can visit www.floridadisaster.org/shelter-status/.

Belizeans in Florida Worried Over Hurricane Milton’s Strength

From tonight through Wednesday, residents in Florida, including thousands of Belizeans, are gearing up for the impact of Hurricane Milton. This dangerous Category 5 storm lost some strength while crossing the Gulf of Mexico but has regained power as it approaches the Florida coast. News Five caught up with Ray Gongora, a Belizean living in Pembroke Pines, Florida. He shared that the hurricane is causing a lot of emotional and mental stress for many people.

Ray Gongora, Belizean Living in Florida

“We have gone to the areas where sand is being distributed and there are also bags provided. Some people take their own shovels in order to expedite the process. We got to fill our own bags and then take them away and bring them home. So that is one of the process of preparation. We are placing sandbags at our doors, uh, trying to prevent water from coming in. Marion, you, you said it’s, it’s a powerful, we’re calling it a monster. This is a monster. And because of that, it’s even affecting us, um, emotionally. We are very anxious about what. the power that this storm will have and the effect it will have upon us. Um, many Belizeans who are living on the coast in, in Tampa, uh, especially Naples have moved inland with other Belizeans. Here people can get information on shelters that they can use the Honorary Council of Belize in Miami has a number that is posted. And can be used for those who need assistance or referral or information regarding shelters. And that number is 305 300 7520. Please, if you need assistance, if you need any information, any beliefs out there, please give that number a call. You can also go online, as I said, to that website.”

Belizeans in Florida can also log online for assistance or information at www.floridadasaster.org/shelter-status/

Hurricane Milton Returns to Category 5 Strength

Hurricane Milton has regained its Category 5 strength. Authorities in Florida have issued urgent warnings for residents along the west-central coast. With destructive winds and life-threatening storm surges expected, officials are urging residents to prepare their homes and evacuate if ordered to do so.

The National Hurricane Centre has issued a storm surge warning, warning of potential inundations of 10 feet or more along the coastline. Residents in these areas are facing a dire situation and are advised to evacuate immediately. “Waiting until tomorrow may be too late,” officials said.

Milton’s devastating hurricane-force winds are expected to hit the west coast, with gusts reaching inland. The storm is projected to maintain its hurricane strength as it crosses Florida, bringing significant risks of prolonged power outages. Residents are urged to finalise preparations by tonight.

In addition to the wind and storm surge, heavy rainfall across the Florida Peninsula through Thursday could result in catastrophic flash flooding. River levels are expected to rise as coastal and inland flooding combine, amplifying the overall threat to the region.

Hurricane Milton Targets Florida

Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall on Florida’s west coast late Wednesday as a Category 3 storm, packing winds of 111 to 129 mph (180 to 210 kph). Meteorologists anticipate that Milton will maintain hurricane strength as it moves across central Florida towards the Atlantic Ocean. This trajectory is likely to spare other states recently devastated by Hurricane Helene, which claimed at least 230 lives along its path from Florida to the Carolinas.

State officials are urging residents not to underestimate Milton’s potential impact and to heed evacuation orders. Florida’s Division of Emergency Management has released a list of counties currently under evacuation notices. Several areas remain inundated with debris, including waterlogged furniture, appliances, and personal belongings, piled high along the streets. Many residents have temporarily vacated their homes, which have become uninhabitable.

Christine Jones, a Belizean-American living in Ruskin Town, Florida, shared her preparation efforts, stating, “This morning I spent helping my neighbours put up their shutters.” She has stocked up on nonperishable food and fuel, recalling the damage from Hurricane Ian three years ago. “I’m hoping that everything holds together,” she added.

Belizean Shadini Henry, who has lived in Florida for over eight years, faced difficulties securing essential supplies post-Helene. “It was hard to find water in the stores,” she explained, noting the rush to fill vehicles with gas before the storm.

Janine Sylvestre, the Consul of Belize in Florida, has issued an urgent warning as Hurricane Milton. Most of Florida is under a state of emergency, and the storm’s effects could be felt statewide. Residents are urged to prepare essential supplies and review hurricane plans, including provisions for pets and seniors. For urgent consular assistance, contact the Consulate at 305-300-7520.

Unusually Strong Winds or a “Cold Front?”

Residents continue to report unusually strong winds this morning. Tarek Mathews, the forecaster on duty at the National Meteorological Service of Belize, explained to News 5 what’s causing current wind patterns and the possibility of an “upcoming cold front.”

Mathews added, “In terms of the winds right now we’re having Western wind, which Hurricane Milton is perhaps influencing the winds over the country.” He clarified that while Hurricane Milton is moving north of Belize, there remains a possibility of an outer band crossing the country. However, he noted that “nothing significant” is expected now.

He further reassured the public, saying, “In the short term, we’re not seeing any cold front.”

According to Mathews, “We’re having winds whereby they’re coming from the land, and we’re having that cool temperature in the morning. People would think it’s a cold front, but it’s not.”

The Met Service’s forecast for today indicates “moderate west to southwest airflow,” leading to “generally fair weather.” Residents can expect sunny skies with a few clouds throughout the day, while tonight will bring partly cloudy conditions with isolated showers.

Belizeans in Diaspora Brace for Category 5 Hurricane

Last month, Hurricane Helene tore through the United States, causing chaos in several states. Now, hot on its heels, Hurricane Milton is making its presence known. On Monday, Milton ramped up to a category-five hurricane as it headed toward Florida through the Gulf of Mexico. We reached out to a few Belizeans living abroad to hear how they’re preparing for this powerful storm. Here’s News Five’s Britney Gordon with the story.

Britney Gordon, Reporting

Less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene tore through Florida, Belizean American Christine Jones is bracing for another major storm and this time, it’s a category five. Jones has been living in Florida for about five years, residing in Ruskin Town, south of Tampa, Florida.

Christine Jones, Florida Resident

“This morning I spent helping my neighbors put up their shutters and now it’s my turn. I have my shutters out. They’re going to help me put mine up. I was driving around trying to make sure I got a tank full of gas earlier. I’ve got food, nonperishables. I’m good for a week, as long as I don’t get flooded out. I have my fire camp stove. The skills from the fire heart days in Belize come in handy. Yeah, so the main concern for me is that if we don’t get flooded, my roof doesn’t blow off, which. Hurricane Ian, I think three years ago, I lost a part of my roof, so I have a new roof. So I’m hoping that everything holds together.”

Hurricane Helene was the most powerful storm to hit North Tampa, Florida since 1851, leaving a trail of devastation across several states and claiming over two hundred lives. Now, Hurricane Milton is making headlines, having rapidly intensified to a category-five storm and setting a record for the Tampa Bay area. It’s expected to make landfall along Florida’s Gulf Coast on Wednesday. Belizean Shadini Henry, who has called Florida home for over eight years, shared that in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, her family struggled to stock up on essential supplies.

Shadini Henry, Florida Resident

“It was hard to find in the stores. Water, couldn’t even find water in the stores. Luckily we found some afterwards. We could not we have the both of our vehicles full with gas, but it was hard all the gas. I imagine by today because we got ours filled last night. It was hard to find a guest to fill in the cars, but I imagine by today they’re all gone. They’re all out. We have stacked up on nonperishable items.”

As the storm draws near, there’s a chance it might lose some of its intensity. However, it’s expected to affect a wider area, including the Yucatan Peninsula. Belizean Windel Castillo, who has been living in Merida for almost three years, shared that he’s decided to stay calm and not panic as the storm approaches.

Windel Castillo, Merida Resident

“This is the first time that we’ve had, like, about four hurricanes back to back coming to us. And this is the first one that’s actually turned into a Category five, and it’s not changing trajectory. So I always make sure I’m prepared. And for the last three months, it’s been raining almost every day. From since three p. m. on to six, seven. So just to be on the safe side, always make sure I have my stuff ready.”

Castillo has lived through a category four hurricane previously and believes he is adequately prepared for the approaching storm.

Windel Castillo

“It’s not my first rodeo, to be honest with you. I think that in the event I do get in panic, then it could be worse. But I have my windows sealed. I have enough. supply. I have everything that I think I need for a hurricane. And so I’m not that worried per se.”

Britney Gordon for News Five.

Belizeans in Florida Share Their Experiences As Hurricane Milton Approaches

Belizean Shadini Henry continues to prepare as Category 5 Hurricane Milton barrels towards Florida. Henry, who has been living in Florida for the past eight years, says that she has stocked up on essential items. She lives in St. Petersburg. Meanwhile, another Belizean, Christine Jones, who lives in Ruskin Town south of Tampa, says that she too continues to make preparations as Milton nears.

Hurricane Milton surged into a Category 5 storm over the record-warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As it continues to grow in size, there is a chance its category could drop, but the storm’s impact is expected to cover a much broader area. Belizeans in the Yucatan Peninsula have prepared.

Milton is projected to make landfall along Florida’s Gulf Coast on Wednesday, with its dangerous eye and eyewall potentially hitting anywhere from Cedar Key in the north to Naples in the south, including the Tampa and Fort Myers regions. Just 10 days after Hurricane Helene ravaged Florida’s Gulf Coast with a storm surge and struck the Big Bend as a Category 4 storm, officials are urging residents still in recovery to evacuate or brace for another life-threatening storm.

According to Henry, she had a challenge finding water. ‘Water…couldn’t even find water in the stores. Luckily, we found some afterwards. We have both of our vehicles full with gas, but it was hard. All the gas. I imagine today because we got our fill last night. It was hard to find gas to fill the cars, but I imagine by today they’re all gone. They’re all out. We have stacked up on non-perishable items.” Henry and her family still have items following Hurricane Helene. “We made sure we went out, and we got some rechargeable lights. We are going to make sure that we have all the lights, all the devices, and everything charged to keep the kids entertained.”

Henry explained that although her neighbourhood isn’t prone to flooding, her family has a plan in place if mandatory evacuations are issued. “We live in a zone that doesn’t typically flood, which is why we’ve decided to stay home. But with two younger kids, if an evacuation order comes, we will definitely listen and move to a hotel as our backup plan,” she shared. Discussing her mental state, Henry remained calm. “I have to be,” she said. “It’s not good to panic, because you can’t think clearly when you do. I have control over my mind that way, so I’m staying calm.” Her family back in Belize has been checking in frequently.

Meanwhile, back in Ruskin, Jones is not thrilled. She said that while her area has avoided direct hits in the past, the possibility of a major storm reaching Tampa is unsettling. “We haven’t had a direct hit in about 100 years, so this is very concerning.” Jones lives in Zone C, an area not currently under evacuation orders, but she remains cautious. “Zones A and B have been told to evacuate, so I’m waiting to see what will happen in my area,” she explained. In preparation, she has been helping neighbours put up shutters and plans to do the same for her home. She has also stocked up on gas and non-perishable food, ensuring she’s ready for at least a week.

Recalling damage from Hurricane Ian three years ago, where she lost part of her roof, Jones is hopeful that her new roof will hold up against the storm. “The main concern for me is avoiding flooding and hoping my roof doesn’t blow off again,” she said. Jones stays in constant contact with her family back in Belize, where she has eight siblings and her relatives in Florida. “We have a family page where we keep in touch and get regular updates,” she shared. She also praised the Belizean Association in Florida, which she discovered about a year ago. “They do great work, especially supporting underprivileged children in Belize.”

Janine Sylvestre, Honorary Consul of Belize in Florida, urged Belizeans to prepare for Hurricane Milton. She advised residents to gather essential supplies, update hurricane plans for pets and elderly family members, and heed evacuation orders if necessary. The Consulate is available for emergency services at 305-300-7520.

Belizean Living in Merida Prepares for Hurricane Milton

Thirty-year-old Windel Castillo has made preparations as category 5 hurricane Milton is expected to brush the Yucatan Peninsula.

Hurricane Milton rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm on Monday as it moved through the Gulf of Mexico, heading toward Florida. A hurricane warning has been issued for parts of Mexico’s Yucatan state, which is expected to be sideswiped by the storm.

Castillo has been living in Merida for quite some time. When he heard that Milton had intensified into a category 5 storm, Castillo told News 5, “To be honest with you, I was not in such a panic because we had had Beryl, and then it went up, and now Milton, which is a Category 5.”

He added, “So I didn’t go in a panic; I just did what I know, which is getting my canned food, making sure that I have enough water, and the basic preparations that you need for like any hurricane.”

Castillo, who has been living in Merida for about three years, shared that this is the first time that they are experiencing back-to-back hurricanes. “So I always make sure I’m prepared, and for the last three months it’s been raining almost every day… I live on the north side. So normally the north side doesn’t have much flooding. It’s normally more in the central area, or the south does have a lot of flooding. But again, you always need to make sure you’re on the safe side because we use like water pumps to like get water and everything is connected to the vat.”

Castillo says he will continue to monitor the storm and rely on information provided by local authorities.