Pacific Storm to Dump Rain in South, Central Belize

The National Meteorological Service and National Emergency Management Organization are advising Belizeans to get ready for a wet weekend. Tropical Storm Selma in the south-east Pacific is expected to move north and make landfall on Saturday near the border of El Salvador and Guatemala or possibly in central and western Guatemala near to but not crossing Belize, giving way to an increase in showers over most areas but more so over central and southern Belize. The Met and NEMO say there is a potential for flooding in the south and other flood prone areas during Saturday night into early Sunday morning. Meanwhile, as of two this afternoon, a broad area of low pressure over the northwest Caribbean Sea is beginning to organize and has a good chance of developing into a tropical storm by Saturday. The good news is that that system, located east of Belize, is not expected to affect the Jewel as it is projected to move north and turn northeast towards the Bahamas. As regards to potential flooding, NEMO advises that those in low-lying areas should move to higher ground if necessary and stay away from rivers, streams and all flooded areas. Do not touch electrical fixtures and equipment when in flood waters. Turn off power at the main switch box before your home is flooded. Drivers are reminded to exercise caution when driving in wet conditions; reduce speed, put on your low beam and hazard lights. It is not advisable to drive through flood waters.