2025-06-28 - Greater Belize Media

Tropical Depression Forms in Gulf of Mexico

A low-pressure system in the western Gulf of Mexico has developed into Tropical Depression Two as of this afternoon, according to the National Hurricane Centre (NHC).

The NHC began issuing advisories after it confirmed a closed circulation and winds of 30 mph, showing better organisation and a well-defined structure.

The depression could strengthen into a tropical storm and would carry the name Barry. Forecasts show it will make landfall in eastern Mexico on Monday, bringing heavy rainfall and tropical storm-force winds.

“Tropical Storm Watches or Warnings could be required for portions of the Mexican Gulf coast as soon as this afternoon,” the NHC said in its latest update. Tropical storm warnings have already been issued for the Mexican coastline.

The NHC currently estimates a 70 per cent chance of further development within 48 hours and through the next seven days.

Meanwhile, in Belize, persistent rainfall has caused flooding across several parts of the country. While the Guinea Grass and Yo Creek to San Lazaro roads are now passable, water levels have yet to recede along key routes like Santa Martha Road, which remains closed, according to the latest notice by the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO).

The San Roman Road is also closed, as water continues to rise between 16 and 20 inches over a two-mile stretch. Motorists heading to San Roman are advised to use the San Antonio route instead.

Roads such as San Antonio and August Pine Ridge to San Felipe are reported to be clear.

Water levels at the Mameyal curve remain steady at approximately 8 to 10 inches across a 1,000-foot stretch.

Potential Tropical Depression Brewing in Bay of Campeche

Meteorologists at the National Hurricane Center are closely monitoring a developing weather system in the Bay of Campeche that could soon become the season’s next tropical depression.

As of 2:00 PM EDT on Saturday, surface observations, satellite imagery, and radar data from Mexico indicate that a well-defined surface circulation is forming near the Mexican coastline. Associated shower and thunderstorm activity is becoming more organized, a strong sign that the system is intensifying.

If current trends continue, forecasters say a tropical depression could form later today. The system, currently designated Invest AL91, is expected to track west-northwestward over the weekend, potentially making landfall in eastern Mexico by Monday.

An Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft has been dispatched to investigate the storm further. Depending on the findings, Tropical Storm Watches or Warnings may be issued for parts of Mexico’s Gulf Coast as early as this afternoon.

Even if the system does not reach full tropical cyclone status, forecasters warn that locally heavy rainfall will continue to impact portions of Guatemala and southeastern Mexico over the coming days, raising concerns about flash flooding and landslides.

The National Hurricane Center places the system’s chances of tropical formation at 70% over the next 48 hours and 7 days.

Residents in southeastern Mexico are urged to stay alert and monitor official updates as the situation evolves.

Suspect Shot, Detained After Violent Home Invasion

A home invasion on Benbow Street in Belize City has left a grandmother unconscious and hospitalised and an 11-year-old girl undergoing medical examination to rule out a case of rape.

Reports reaching our newsroom are that around 4 o’clock this morning, a man, known to police, broke into a house where three girls were sleeping in a room.

Their screams drew the attention of their grandmother, who rushed in with a curtain rod to defend them. The grandmother was overpowered by the intruder, who attacked the elderly woman severely, leaving her wounds around her eye and mouth bleeding.

News 5 understands that the grandmother is currently hospitalised and unconscious. The children’s grandfather was also attacked and beaten when he tried to intervene.

News 5 understands that the man took the 11-year-old girl downstairs.

The little girl’s uncle was sleeping in a room downstairs and heard the commotion. He confronted the intruder and a struggle ensued. The man managed to escape.

The child was found undressed, and police were immediately alerted.

Police launched a manhunt and detained the suspect, who was reportedly shot in the foot during the pursuit. He is in custody.

MIDH: Up to 20 Inches of Water Over Road in Some Areas

Heavy rains continue to cause widespread disruption across the country, with severe flooding reported in multiple areas, including key sections of the Philip Goldson Highway.

The latest update from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) confirmed that the highway is currently impassable at several points in the Orange Walk District, Mile 41–42, Mile 52 (Tower Hill), and Mile 62–63 (San Jose Village), due to rising water levels.

Images of the culvert at More Tomorrow Village, Cayo, show that it has collapsed, and residents are advised to take precautions. Meanwhile, the other road that allows villagers to come out of the community is currently flooded, which is making it challenging for residents to come out.

Images of the culvert at More Tomorrow Village, Cayo, show that it has collapsed, and residents are advised to take precautions.

“It is advised that drivers do not attempt to pass these areas since water depth is estimated to be as high as 20 inches over the road surface. Drivers who attempt to traverse these areas do so at their own risk,” the MIDH stated in its statement.

Motorists are also strongly advised not to attempt passing through flooded areas. Drivers are urged to slow down, remain alert, and prioritise safety, especially as forecasts predict continued rainfall in the coming days.

“Attempting to pass through flooded areas may lead to damage to your vehicle and may put its passengers at risk,” MIDH added.

Evacuations have already begun in some low-lying communities, including San Pablo, and San Jose.

MIDH added that its personnel are currently on the ground monitoring the situation and assisting with traffic management, stating, “Full closure of the highway in these areas may be necessary if the flooding worsens.”