NEMO ADVISORY 5 - Tropical Storm Gamma continues moving slowly towards the Northwest and generally towards Belize.
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Nov 19, 2005, 03:00 am
Tropical Storm Gamma continues moving slowly towards the northwest and generally towards Belize.
The preliminary phase of the hurricane emergency plan for Belize is in effect.
A tropical storm warning is in effect for the country of Belize. This means that tropical storm force winds are possible in this area within the next 24 hours.
At 3:00 am the centre of tropical storm gamma was located near 16.9 degrees north latitude and 86.2 degrees west longitude or about 140 miles east-southeast of Belize City, 135 miles southeast of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye and 180 miles east northeast of Punta Gorda town.
Gamma is moving to the northwest at 6 miles per hour (mph). A gradual turn to the north-northwest is expected later today, with some more erratic motion possible.
Maximum sustained winds are near 45 mph and a slight increase in strength is possible during the next 24 hours. Tropical storm force winds extend 105 miles from the centre.
Residents on the Cayes and along coastal areas should be prepared for gusty winds, very rough seas and torrential rain. The marine community is ordered to remain in Harbour until further notice. Waves of 9 to 12 feet are possible.
Persons on the mainland living in low lying areas or along rivers and creeks should be prepared for rapidly rising waters and life threatening flash floods. Rainfall totals of up to 15 inches are possible in some areas over the next 24-36 hours.
Vehicular traffic is advised to exercise extreme caution as visibility will be reduced in heavy rain and low lying areas will become flooded. Gusty winds will make vehicles unstable.
The next advisory on gamma will be issued by the national emergency management organization (NEMO) at 6:00am today.
NEMO BELIZE 19 NOV 2005
END