Weather Alert - U.S. Embassy Belmopan, Belize November 2, 2022
Location: Belize
Event: HURRICANE LISA EXPECTED TO MAKE LANDFALL 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 to circulate.
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. Heavy rainfall has begun across Belize and some low-lying areas can expect between 8-12 inches of rain, which may result in wide-spread flooding and heightened potential for flash floods. Public shelters are available countrywide. Please monitor local news for updates as the storm develops.
U.S. Embassy Belmopan has suspended routine consular services through Friday, November 4. All U.S. citizens in affected areas should monitor weather reports, follow directions from local officials, and take other appropriate safety measure as needed, including:
1. Assess whether changes to your family/emergency plan are necessary.
2. Stay off the roads and avoid unnecessary travel.
3. Secure your home, important documents, and loose objects.
4. Seek secure shelter, especially if you live in a flood-prone area.
5. Monitor local news for updates.
6. Contact the NEMO coordinator for your region (located below) for storm-related emergencies and evacuation protocols.
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.Gov for hurricane preparedness information.
· Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts
· Consult the CDC website for 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
o Floral Park Road, Belmopan, Cayo, Belize
o +501 822-4011
o ConsulBelize@state.gov or ACSBelize@state.gov
o https://bz.usembassy.gov/
· State Department - Consular Affairs
o 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
