NEMO Advisory #3FLOODING DUE TO HEAVY RAINFALL ASSOCIATED WITH THE REMNANTS OF HURRICANE JULIA OVER CENTRAL AMERICAThe National Meteorological Service of Belize and the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) hereby inform the public that heavy rainfall over Belize is associated with remnants of Hurricane Julia, which made landfall over Nicaragua on Sunday, 9th October 2022. Showers and thunderstorms associated with this activity are being monitored for possible tropical cyclone development, however, such development is not likely until the system emerges in the Gulf of Mexico.
Regardless of further development, the system will continue to produce heavy showers and thunderstorms across Belize. Maximum rainfall of 4 to 8 inches has been recorded across the country during the past 72 hours and another 2 to 4 inches is likely during the next 24 hours. This will increase the likelihood of flooding in the flood-prone areas of the country. Corozal and Orange Walk are under a flood watch. Belize City, Belize Rural, Cayo, Stann Creek and Toledo are under a flood warning. Additionally, a strong thunderstorm watch remains in effect for the possibility of strong thunderstorms with damaging winds and severe lightning. A small craft warning is also in effect due to gusty winds and rough sea conditions. Operators of small crafts are therefore advised to remain in safe harbour until the warning has been lifted. NEMO emergency operations centres countrywide will be opening shelters as needed.
NEMO continues to advise the public as follows:
1. If you live near a river, creek or low-lying area, take the necessary actions to save lives. Do not venture out to sea.
2. Check on the elderly and persons with disability.
3. If you need to seek shelter, move early. Do not wait until it is too late. Move before nightfall. Before leaving home, secure your documents and pets.
4. If your home is likely to flood, secure your home and turn off your electricity and water before leaving.
5. Avoid walking or driving through flood waters, turn back. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down and one foot of water can sweep your vehicle away.
6. Boil or purify water in flooded areas before drinking it.
7. Drive slowly and put on hazard lights if you must drive in the rain. As much as possible stay off the highways and secondary roads.
NEMO's emergency hotline is 936. Stay alert. Be prepared. NEMO is on full alert.
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Tropical depression Julia entered Guatemala and heads to the border with Chiapas.