Flood Forecast: Coastal and Inland Areas Bracing for Rising Waters

As of Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 8:05 AM, elevated river levels are expected along coastal areas in the southern parts of the country, and residents are being urged to monitor waterways closely and exercise caution.

In Region 7, the Rio Hondo at Blue Creek North remains at flood stage, with increasing levels forecast for Santa Cruz, San Antonio, San Roman, Douglas, and areas downstream to the coast. The New River at Hill Bank and Tower Hill is also expected to see rising levels, with elevated conditions at Caledonia.

In Region 9, bank full-stage levels are anticipated on the Mopan River at Benque Viejo Town. The Macal River will remain below spillway levels at all Fortis reservoirs, but water levels in San Ignacio are expected to surpass the low-level bridge. Meanwhile, above-normal levels are projected for the Belize River at Double Run, though the Crooked Tree Lagoon will stay below the causeway.

Region 11 is also on high alert as increasing levels are forecast on the Sibun River at Freetown Sibun and the Southern Lagoon at Gales Point Village. The eastern slopes of the Mayan Mountains and the Sittee River at Kendal Bridge will experience above-normal levels, while normal conditions persist at the Swasey and Bladen branches of the Monkey River, Deep River, Rio Grande, Moho River, and the Temash River.

The Ministry of Natural Resources has also advised that the Coastal Road from La Democracia to the Hope Creek junction may be impassable due to excessive rainfall. A flood alert is in effect for the San Ignacio low-level bridge and the Iguana Creek Bridge, which may become impassable due to riverine flooding. Additionally, flood warnings are in place for the Sittee River and its surrounding areas, as well as urbanised low-lying areas in central and northern Belize.

Residents across affected regions are urged to remain vigilant and prepared as flooding is possible. Normal levels are currently expected on the Sarstoon River in Region 13.