Coastal Highway Travellers Urged to Exercise Caution

The National Hydrological Service has issued a flood alert for northern and central regions of Belize, warning residents of potential flash flooding in several areas following persistent rainfall. The alert is currently in effect for communities near the Sittee and Deep Rivers and their downstream areas. Authorities have also placed Region 7 under watch due to excessive rainfall that could lead to rising water levels.

Flooding conditions are expected within the next 24 hours in Region 11, which includes the Sittee and Deep Rivers. A flash flood alert remains in effect for watersheds along the Eastern Slopes of the Maya Mountains, where heavy downpours have significantly increased the risk of flash floods. Motorists traveling along the Coastal Highway are advised to monitor weather conditions closely and proceed with caution. Areas marked in orange on the official map indicate a medium-high potential for flash flooding, while regions in red face a high risk.

Current river conditions show that the Rio Hondo at Blue Creek North, Santa Cruz, San Antonio, and San Roman remains below normal levels, while Douglas to the coast is at normal levels. The New River at Hill Bank, Tower Hill, and Caledonia is also at normal levels. In Region 9, the Mopan River at Benque Viejo Town is at normal levels, and the Macal River at all monitoring stations is below normal. The Belize River at Banana Bank and Double Run is at normal levels. In Region 11, the Sibun River at Freetown Sibun is above normal, and the Southern Lagoon near Gales Point Village is above normal. Rivers on the Eastern Slopes of the Maya Mountains and the Sittee River at Kendal Bridge are rising. The Swasey and Bladen Rivers are above normal, and the Monkey River at Medina Bank is approaching bankfull. The Deep River is above normal, while the Temash River at Crique Sarco and the Moho River at Blue Creek are above normal. The Sarstoon River remains at normal levels.

Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.