HIGHLIGHTS
On August 4, 2016 at 09:00 (BLZ time), the country of Belize was declared ALL CLEAR by the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO)
Priorities are focused on restoration of utilities, search and rescue, medical care to those affected, providing shelters, clearing up roads and highways, and inspecting airports and seaports
No deaths occurred and all community and regional hospitals are fully operational.
184,700 Persons Affected
0 Persons Missing
907 Persons in Shelters
0 Fatalities
0 Health Establishments Affected
SITUATION OVERVIEW
On August 4, 2016, Hurricane Earl (Category 1), struck Belize and has since downgraded to a Tropical Storm as it moves westward away from Belize. Currently, no deaths have been reported. However, major infrastructure and building damage has been reported in addition to blocked roads, due to high water levels in San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Belize City, Ladyville, Belize River Valley, Orange Walk, Belmopan, and other affected areas.
Authorities in Belize have responded to over 100 search and rescue requests during the hurricane. Twenty nine shelters have been made available, housing 907 persons. Flash flooding has been reported in the Cayo District and communities along the Macal and Mopan Rivers have been advised to immediately seek higher ground.
Initial reports indicated that Belize City has extensive flooding and may have structural damage, particularly to low-income homes. In addition, there may be extensive damages to agriculture.
The Ministry of Health has stated, “At this time all Community and Regional hospitals and Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital have resumed regular services. They were able to maintain exceptional functioning operations to the public during the passage of Hurricane Earl with minimal disruption”. Restoration of power services is ongoing and cleanup of the roads is in progress. The Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport is fully operational.