In the early hours of today, Tropical Depression 19 of the current hurricane season formed, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the United States.
It is expected that by the end of today, the weather phenomenon will develop into tropical storm Sara and continue to strengthen if it remains over the water, which would increase the risk for the potentially affected areas, currently including Honduras and Nicaragua.
At 7:00 a.m., the center of the depression was located about 400 km east of Isla Guanaja, Honduras, and approximately 150 km northeast of Cabo Gracias a Dios, on the border of Nicaragua and Honduras.
The phenomenon is currently moving west at 24 km/h (15 mph) and maintains maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h (35 mph).
"The movement is expected to continue today, carrying the system through the western Caribbean Sea. The depression is anticipated to stagnate and meander near the northern coast of Honduras on Friday night and will persist through the weekend,” warns the U.S. meteorological agency.
In its latest report, the NHC warns of heavy rains that could lead to flooding and landslides in various areas of Honduras over the weekend.
In a notice published by the Meteorology Institute (INSMET) of Cuba, the entity specified that "taking into account its current position, potential evolution, and the time of year, the Forecast Center is closely monitoring its trajectory over the coming days."
Current Alerts and Warnings
Currently, there are several active alerts and warnings in the region. A Hurricane Warning is in effect from Punta Castilla to the border between Honduras and Nicaragua, and it also includes the Bay Islands in Honduras. Additionally, a Tropical Storm Warning is in place from Punta Sal to the same border and for the Bay Islands. In the area from the border to Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua, a Tropical Storm Alert has been issued.
These alerts indicate the possibility of hurricane or tropical storm conditions in these areas within the next 48 hours, making outdoor preparations difficult and increasing risks for residents. The population in Honduras, Belize, and the Yucatán Peninsula is advised to closely monitor the evolution of this system.
Dangers for the Area
Rain:
Authorities forecast rainfall accumulations of 10 to 20 inches in northern Honduras, with isolated maxima potentially reaching up to 30 inches. This poses a significant risk of catastrophic flash flooding and landslides, particularly in mountainous areas such as the Sierra La Esperanza.
In the rest of Honduras, as well as in Belize, El Salvador, eastern Guatemala, and western Nicaragua, accumulations of 5 to 10 inches are expected, with possible peaks of up to 15 inches, which could lead to flooding and landslides.
Wind:
In the watch area, hurricane conditions are expected to arrive by Friday. Areas under warning will experience tropical storm conditions today, while in the watch areas, these effects are possible by the end of the day.
Cyclonic Surge:
The storm surge associated with this system could raise sea levels by 1 to 3 feet above the normal tide along the northern coast of Honduras, creating large and potentially destructive waves in coastal areas.
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