Location: Belize
Event: HURRICANE LISA EXPECTED TO MAKE LANDFALL WITH BELIZE COAST BEFORE NIGHTFALL
The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) forecasts Hurricane Lisa will make landfall between Belize City and Dangriga as a strong category 1 or minimal category 2 storm before nightfall with winds between 80-90 mph and a storm surge between 4-7 feet. NEMO advises the public to put emergency action plans into effect, check emergency food and medical supplies, store water, and check on those who may rely on you for assistance during the storm.
A state of emergency will be declared for the Belize and Stann Creek districts starting at 3:00 p.m. today until the “all clear” is given. A curfew will be in effect from dusk today until dawn on Thursday, November 3, during which only emergency and security agencies will be allowed use of roads.
The Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA), seaports, and public transportation have ceased operations, while the land borders are set to close at 2:00 p.m. Non-essential travel and use of highways is discouraged. Heavy rainfall has begun across Belize and some low-lying areas can expect between 8-12 inches of rain which will result in wide-spread flooding and heightened potential for flash floods across the south. Public shelters are available countrywide, including Belize City. Please monitor local news for updates as the storm develops.
U.S. Embassy Belmopan will cancel and reschedule all routine consular services through Friday, November 4. All U.S. citizens living in, or traveling to, affected areas should monitor weather reports, follow directions from local officials, and take other appropriate safety measure as needed, including:
- Assess whether changes to your family/emergency plan are necessary.
- Avoid unnecessary travel.
- Secure your home, important documents, and loose or flammable objects.
- Seek secure shelter, especially if you live in a low-lying area or vulnerable coastal community.
- Monitor local news for updates.
- Contact the NEMO coordinator for your region (located below) for storm-related emergencies and evacuation protocol.
The NEMO emergency hotline is 936, and a list of regional and district coordinators is posted to their website.
Additional Actions to Take:
- Visit Travel.State.Govfor hurricane preparedness information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts
- Consult the CDC websitefor hurricane preparedness information.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website for hurricane preparedness information.
- Consult the NEMO website for storm updates.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Belmopan, Belize
- Floral Park Road, Belmopan, Cayo, Belize
- +501 822-4011
- ConsulBelize@state.gov or ACSBelize@state.gov
- https://bz.usembassy.gov/
State Department – Consular Affairs
- 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Belize Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive Alerts.
- Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
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