NEMO national committees met this afternoon in Belmopan to examine its level of readiness to respond to Tropical Depression IDA.    IDA continues moving to the North at 8 miles per hour with maximum sustained winds of 35 miles per hour.  The forecast track moves the center across Eastern Honduras to emerge over the Northwest Caribbean Sea tonight.  Little change in strength is expected as Ida moves back over water.  The forecast indicates that there is still some degree of uncertainty among the models on how much intensification to expect from Ida.  TD Ida is expected to speed up and turn towards the North –Northwest.   This motion will cause Ida to enter and move through the Gulf of Mexico earlier than anticipated.    

River levels remain normal however Flood alert remains in effect for most areas of the country.  People living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to evacuate at short notice should the need arise.     

During a Press Conference this afternoon, the Minister responsible for NEMO outlined NEMO’s preparedness on the ground to respond to any scenario, particularly in the South and the North.

Belizeans are urged to remain alert and to continue LISTEN TO THEIR RADIO AND TELEVISION AND THE INFORMATION PROVIDED BY NEMO.