Tropical Storm Sara has caused catastrophic flooding and mudslides in Honduras, with up to 30 inches of rain expected. Over 20,000 residents have been affected, with evacuations underway. The storm is projected to move inland towards Guatemala, Belize, and Mexico before reaching Florida next week.
Tropical Storm Sara made landfall in northern Honduras on Thursday evening, resulting in severe flooding and mudslides by Friday morning, according to reports from the National Hurricane Center. Dramatic footage displayed floodwaters overwhelming city streets, nearly submerging parked vehicles. Forecasts predict that Honduras may experience up to 30 inches of rain by Monday, while neighboring regions, such as Belize and Nicaragua, could receive between 6 to 12 inches. Currently, the storm’s winds are sustained at 50 mph, with over 20,000 individuals affected, necessitating evacuations and leaving several individuals missing, as per data from the UN’s ReliefWeb. Notably, Sara has also impacted Panama and Costa Rica, both of which are still dealing with the ramifications of Hurricane Rafael’s recent torrential downpour. The storm’s trajectory is anticipated to take it inland across Central America, impacting northern Guatemala, central Belize, and southern Mexico throughout the weekend. Meteorologists expect Sara to decelerate post-landfall yet persist in its path through the Gulf of Mexico, potentially reaching the western coast of Florida by the middle of the following week.
The emergence of Tropical Storm Sara has raised significant concerns in Central America, particularly in Honduras, which faces the dual challenges of extreme rainfall and pre-existing vulnerabilities from previous weather events. The National Hurricane Center’s forecasts signal a potential humanitarian crisis as countless citizens face evacuations and widespread flooding. This phenomenon exemplifies the ongoing challenges faced by nations in the region, compounded by recent adverse weather patterns, including the effects of Hurricane Rafael earlier in the month.
In summary, Tropical Storm Sara has caused extensive flooding and destruction in Honduras, with the possibility of significant rainfall continuing through the coming days. As the storm progresses inland, communities in Guatemala, Belize, and Mexico may also face adverse conditions. The scale of this storm underscores the critical need for preparedness and response in tackling natural disasters in this vulnerable region.
Original Source: wng.org
