2024-10-19 - Channel 5 Belize

Should You Work as TS Nadine Approaches?

Tropical Nadine is expected to make landfall in a few hours. As of 9 a.m., Nadine was located 25 miles southeast of Belize City, moving west at 8 mph with sustained winds of 50 mph.

The National Meteorological Service (NMS) and the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) held a press conference this morning. During the Q&A, officials were asked for their advice to persons who will be working today.

NEMO’s National Emergency Coordinator, Daniel Mendez said their messaging has been clear and consistent regarding the seriousness of the approaching storm. He strongly recommended that businesses close, stressing that it is unwise to assume the storm is small or harmless. “We don’t know what the full impact will be, but we are aware of the potential for flooding,” he noted.

Mendez urged people to take the situation seriously, especially since the system is expected to pass within the next few hours. He explained that teams would be moving through all districts to ensure that residents are informed and advised of the storm’s imminent arrival. “It’s crucial that we act now. We cannot have people engaging in regular activities while we are preparing for the storm’s impact,” Mendez added.

“We cannot, we cannot have people out there doing those activities while we are preparing for the potential of the imminent arrival of the storm in the next few hours.”

When asked for advice for those persons who are being forced to work, Mendez stressed the importance of taking all weather systems seriously, stating that it is unwise to dismiss any storm as a small event that will quickly pass. He acknowledged that the impacts from Tropical Storm Nadine could include not only rainfall but also secondary flooding effects.

Mendez advised families and business owners to be vigilant and prepared, stressing that the situation warrants serious attention. He noted the necessity for businesses to adhere to safety recommendations, although he refrained from specifying mandatory actions at this time.

Tropical Storm Nadine Advisory No. 6

Tropical storm conditions from Nadine continue to impact coastal parts of the Corozal, Belize, and Stann Creek Districts. The National Meteorological Service recorded a wind gust of 43 mph at Half Moon Caye. A Tropical Storm warning remains in effect from Belize City northward to the Mexico border. As of 9:00 a.m., Nadine was located about 25 miles southeast of Belize City, moving westward at 8 mph with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph. The storm is expected to make landfall along the Belizean coast in a few hours, though significant strengthening is not anticipated before landfall.

The primary threat from Nadine remains heavy rainfall, with 1 to 2 inches already recorded. An additional 4 to 6 inches is expected, particularly over northern and central Belize, which could lead to flooding. Strong gusty winds are creating rough sea conditions, and mariners are advised to remain in safe harbor until further notice. Some coastal flooding is expected near or just north of the storm’s landfall area, and gusty winds north of the center may cause minor damage to weak structures. Areas south of Belize City could also experience Tropical Storm conditions, and residents are urged to stay alert.

A Tropical Storm Warning indicates that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within the next six hours. Residents should take immediate action to protect life and property.

Expected Hazards in Belize:
– Rainfall: An additional 4 to 6 inches of rain, particularly in northern and central Belize, could result in localized flooding.
– High Winds: Winds of 50 mph, with higher gusts, may cause damage to structures, crops, and trees.
– Storm Surge: A minor storm surge, generally less than 1 foot, is possible just north of the storm’s landfall area.

The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) urges residents in the Corozal, Belize, Orange Walk, and Cayo Districts to finalize preparations as Tropical Storm Nadine approaches. Flooding and high winds are expected. Residents in other districts should stay on high alert.

– Businesses in the Corozal, Orange Walk, and Belize Districts (including San Pedro and Caye Caulker) should consider closing for the day to ensure the safety of employees.
– Essential services will remain open in the Belize, Corozal, and Orange Walk Districts, as well as in San Pedro and Caye Caulker.
– Families and businesses should implement their emergency plans and check food, water, and medical supplies. Ensure the safety of the elderly, people with disabilities, and pets.
– NEMO recommends sheltering in place, given the limited time before landfall. Find a safe location to take shelter.
– Shelters will be opened in the Belize and Cayo Districts and San Pedro Town. Listen for NEMO updates in your district for further details.

Residents are advised to follow updates from NEMO and the National Meteorological Service. The National Emergency Operations Centre is fully activated, and all district emergency operations centers remain on high alert. NEMO’s hotline is 936.

NEMO reminds the public to take all hydrometeorological hazards seriously and work together to ensure community safety and preparedness.

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.

Tropical Storm Nadine Approaching Belize – Storm Warning in Effect

Tropical storm conditions from Nadine are now impacting coastal parts of Corozal, Belize, and Stann Creek Districts. A Tropical Storm Warning remains in place from Belize City northward to the Mexico border.

At 6:00 AM, Tropical Storm Nadine was located near latitude 17.3N, longitude 87.3W, about 60 miles east of Belize City. Nadine is moving west at 9 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph, and may strengthen further before making landfall along the Belize coast between 9:00 AM and noon today.

Key Hazards and Impacts:

– Heavy Rainfall: An additional 4-6 inches of rain is expected, especially in northern and central Belize, increasing the risk of localized flooding.
– High Winds: Winds of 45 mph with higher gusts are expected, potentially causing minor damage to weak structures, trees, and crops.
– Storm Surge: A minor surge of less than 1 foot is expected near and just north of where the system makes landfall.

Residents of Corozal, Orange Walk, Belize, and Cayo Districts should prepare for potential flooding and high winds. Businesses in these areas, including San Pedro and Caye Caulker, are advised to remain closed today for safety. Essential services will remain operational in the affected districts.

Sheltering in Place is recommended due to the short time frame before landfall. However, shelters will open in the Belize and Cayo Districts, as well as San Pedro Town, with more shelters available if needed.

Immediate Actions:
– Activate family and business emergency plans.
– Check your emergency supplies, including food, water, and medical necessities.
– Assist the elderly, people with disabilities, and ensure pet safety.
– Mariners should remain in safe harbor until further notice.

Follow official updates from NEMO and the Met Service. The National Emergency Operations Centre is active, and all District Emergency Operations Centers are on alert. For assistance, contact NEMO’s hotline at 936.

Let’s continue working together to keep our communities safe and prepared!