Belize
NEMO continues to monitor flooding in Belize
By NEMO Press Officer
Wed, 25 Jan 2006, 13:03

The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) continues to monitor the heavy rainfall that has created localized flooding across Belize. Waterways in most areas are still above normal level as is expected during this type of weather. While a few families have been inconvenienced by the heavy downpour, no threats to lives or property now exist due to this natural event.

A portion of the Western Highway that had become impassable for a few hours on Tuesday due to flooding has now been reopened and reports indicate that, for the most part, all major highways are now accessible by motorists. The Cristo Rey road in the Cayo District remains closed.

Rio Grande, Moho, Golden Stream and the Deep Rivers in the Toledo District and the South and North Stann Creek Rivers are still at flood stage. These are not expected to recede until late Thursday.

A public transport bus and commercial truck were swept off the left hand side of the road on Tuesday as a result of flooding near Mile 46 on the Western Highway near the City of Belmopan. No one was injured in the incident.

The Sibun, Manatee and Mullins Rivers and other smaller creeks and streams across the coastal highway will also continue to rise and could affect the highway. Vehicular traffic on this road should exercise caution. These rivers should begin to recede on Thursday.

Gracie Rock on the Sibun River is already flooded. It is expected to continue to rise. The peak of the flood wave will reach Freetown Sibun Thursday morning.

The National Meteorological Services has advised that atmospheric conditions will continue to produce rain across Belize tonight and tomorrow. The rain will subside somewhat tomorrow afternoon, but will continue through Friday. As a result, the localized floods could be prolonged by several more days. Conditions should become much drier on Saturday.

Motorists are advised not to attempt to drive through any road that is flooded by more than one foot of water. All types of vehicles (low and high) could be swept away. The strength of the flowing water is misleading. Pedestrians are also advised not to attempt to wade through flowing water more than a foot deep because they too can be swept off their feet.

NEMO, The National Meteorological Services and the Ministry of Works and Transport will continue to keep Belize advised on this situation.