Message: TC#16  Significant Rainfall Expect Over Belize

Tropical Depression #16, Wednesday October 15, 2008 – 5:00pm

THE EVENT: A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for the entire coast of Belize due to the conditions related to Tropical Depression #16.

PROGNOSIS:  At 2pm EDT today October 15, 2008, the broad centre of Tropical Depression #16 was located was near latitude 15.6 north, longitude 84.9 west, or about 240 miles (385 km) east southeast of Monkey River Town, Belize.

Maximum sustained winds are at about 30 mp/h (45km/h), with higher gusts. Some strengthening is forecast within the next 24 hours. The depression could become a tropical storm later tonight. Rainfalls of between 4 and 8 inches are expected over Belize which could produce life-threatening flash floods and mudslides particularly since this system is moving slowly.

THE SITUATION: The National Emergency Management Organisation Operational Committee has met and the District Emergency Operation Centres have been activated.

The Southern Districts of Stann Creek and Toledo, as well as the Cayo and Belize Districts should remain as the focus areas at this time.

Supplies and vessels are being pre-positioned in the Southern areas of the country and emergency shelters have been identified in the Southern Districts and preparations put in place to effect evacuations if needed.

Sea goers are advised to take note that a small craft warning is in effect.  Drivers using the highways are also advised to take caution due to heavy rain.

REGIONAL RESPONSE: The CU is monitoring Tropical Depression #16 which threatens Belize and is likely to cause flooding and landslides.

The CU is also monitoring Hurricane Omar as it passes through the Eastern Caribbean. Due to significant rainfall over the past few days developments in Barbados and Saint Lucia are also being closely monitored as this system passes.

The Regional Response Mechanism is also on standby.

Contact Details: The CDERA CU 24hr contact number is 246 425 0386