by Kristen Ku
BELIZE CITY, Wed. July 26, 2023
Belize is bracing for the impact of a tropical wave moving westward. Reports indicate that showers and thunderstorms south of Hispaniola are linked to this weather system. Although the tropical wave is not projected to develop into a tropical storm or hurricane, it is expected to bring substantial rainfall to the country over the weekend.
Current estimates suggest that Belize could experience daily rainfall of approximately 2 to 4 inches, with even higher precipitation levels being likely in some areas, thus raising concerns about potential flooding.
The National Meteorological Service (NMS) of Belize took to Facebook on Tuesday, July 26, to provide updates on the developing situation. The NMS confirmed the presence of a tropical wave and accompanying broad area of low pressure located several hundred miles east of the Windward Islands.
However, it was emphasized that there is currently a low chance of the system becoming a tropical depression over the next two days, and it poses no immediate threat to Belize.
Ronald Gordon, Chief of the National Meteorological Service, explained, “There’s a tropical wave affecting Belize; it’s over the Hispaniola area right now. Whenever there is a tropical wave and the weather is active, it can result in heavy rainfall and the possibility of intense thunderstorms.”
Gordon said that it is too early to pinpoint specific regions likely to be impacted based on current projections. Instead, he emphasized that the entire country will be affected by the tropical wave, and that preparedness measures will therefore be needed on a national level.
Since we are currently in the hurricane season, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and stay informed about the latest weather updates. Chief Gordon stressed the importance of monitoring the weather forecasts, stating, “We encourage residents to keep abreast of the weather information and keep monitoring to see what is the latest of the weather and so forth.”
He also highlighted the NMS’s commitment to providing regular weather forecasts, with updates every six hours during the day at 6:00 in the morning, midday, and 6:00 in the evening.
The information is readily available on the NMS’s official Facebook page and their website at nms.gov.bz.
As the tropical wave approaches, Belizeans are advised to exercise caution, stay informed, and be prepared for the possibility of heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
