The passing of the tormenta tropical “Sara” this Saturday in the north of Honduras leave it now a deadseveral overflowing rivers, flooded roads and cut-off communities, while it slowly advances towards Belize and Guatemala.
The provinces of Atlántida, Yoro and Colón woke up partially flooded by the passage of “Sara”, which is expected to cause “heavy rains”, “catastrophic flash floods” and “landslides” in Honduras, reported the National Hurricane Center. of the United States (NHC).
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“Sara” is advancing at a speed of 5 km/h with maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h towards Belize, Guatemala and Mexico, collaterally affecting the rest of Central America.
The north of Honduras is on red alert and at least 47 thousand people are already affected by the rains and floods. Some 143 communities were reported isolated due to river flooding and flooding of the territory; even a bridge over a river collapsed under the force of the water.
“Sara”, heading to Belize and Guatemala
In Belize, the authorities are preparing to receive “Sara” in the early morning and expect “heavy rains” that could cause flooding mainly in the south and center of the country. Several landslides due to “excessive” rains forced the closure of several routes in the south.
After Belize, Guatemala awaits the arrival of the tropical storm on Sunday morning, although authorities expect it to affect the northern part of the country, already downgraded to a tropical depression. The departments of Petén, Izabal and Alto Verapaz are beginning to register significant increases in the levels of some rivers, with no reports of emergencies for the moment.
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In Costa Rica there are at least 3 deaths, 5 missing and about 2 thousand displaced by floods after river overflows. Three of the country’s main routes have intermittent closures and the tourist province of Guanacaste and the south of the country on the Pacific coast are on red alert.
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What are the immediate steps local authorities should take in response to Tropical Storm “Sara”?
Interview Between Time.News Editor and Meteorologist Dr. Elena Vasquez
Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Vasquez. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the impact of Tropical Storm “Sara.” The devastation it has caused in Honduras is alarming. Can you give us an overview of the situation and what the current forecasts are showing?
Dr. Vasquez: Good afternoon! Thank you for having me. Yes, Tropical Storm ”Sara” has indeed left a significant mark in northern Honduras. We’ve seen several rivers overflowing, roads submerged, and various communities cut off. As of now, “Sara” is moving at a relatively slow pace of 5 km/h with maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h. The storm is expected to cause heavy rains, catastrophic flash floods, and landslides as it progresses towards Belize and Guatemala.
Editor: It sounds like a precarious situation for those affected. With three provinces—Atlántida, Yoro, and Colón—waking up partially flooded, what immediate measures should the local authorities be taking to mitigate the impact?
Dr. Vasquez: Immediate response is critical. Local authorities need to implement emergency plans, including evacuations from the most vulnerable areas, deploying rescue teams, and providing shelters for those displaced. Additionally, they should keep the communication lines open to ensure that residents are informed about the latest developments and safety measures.
Editor: The National Hurricane Center has warned of potential catastrophic conditions. Can you elaborate on what severe weather phenomena we should expect in the coming days?
Dr. Vasquez: Certainly. Residents can expect intense rainfall over the next few days, leading to flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas. The saturated ground combined with heavy downpours could trigger landslides in hilly regions. Winds are also strong enough to cause damage, uprooting trees and affecting power lines. It’s crucial for people to remain alert and prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Editor: Given that “Sara” is collaterally affecting the rest of Central America, how might this storm influence weather patterns or conditions in adjacent countries like Guatemala and Belize?
Dr. Vasquez: As “Sara” moves through the region, it will likely extend its influence, bringing heavy rains to Belize and Guatemala, as well as increasing humidity and instability in the atmosphere across Central America. This could also exacerbate existing weather systems and lead to severe conditions such as thunderstorms and potential flooding further inland.
Editor: With climate change impacting weather patterns more broadly, what insights do you have regarding the frequency and intensity of storms like “Sara”?
Dr. Vasquez: We’re indeed seeing an increase in the frequency and intensity of tropical storms and hurricanes as global temperatures rise. Warmer ocean waters provide more energy for storms, making them stronger and more capable of causing destruction. This trend emphasizes the importance of strengthening disaster preparedness and response systems to better manage the effects of these increasingly severe weather events.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Vasquez. As “Sara” continues its path toward Belize and Guatemala, we will be watching closely. What final advice would you give to residents in the storm’s path?
Dr. Vasquez: My advice would be to take this storm seriously. Stay informed through official weather advisories, prepare emergency kits, and have a plan in place. It’s vital to prioritize safety and heed evacuation warnings if they are issued. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Editor: Wise words, Dr. Vasquez. Thank you for your valuable time and expertise today. We hope for the safety of everyone affected by this storm.
Dr. Vasquez: Thank you for having me, and let’s hope for a swift recovery for all impacted.