According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Tropical Storm Julia is likely to strengthen into a hurricane in the next 24-48 hours and is likely to pass over Honduras, bringing tropical-storm-force winds and heavy rain starting Sunday, October 9, 2022. Please review the information below to ensure you are prepared in the event of a tropical storm or hurricane.
What should you do to prepare for before a hurricane or tropical storm?
Get ready:
• Be aware that in the event of a hurricane, you may not be able to depart the area for 24-48 hours or longer. Roads may be washed out or obstructed by debris, adversely affecting access to airports and land routes out of affected areas. Looting and sporadic violence in the aftermath of natural disasters is not uncommon, and security personnel may not always be available to assist.
• Organize a kit of essential items in a waterproof container, including: Bottled water, any medications taken regularly, non-perishable food, battery powered radio, vital documents – especially passports.
• Obtain travel insurance to cover unexpected expenses. If a situation requires an evacuation from an overseas location, the U.S. Department of State may work with commercial airlines to ensure that U.S. citizens can depart as safely and efficiently as possible. U.S. law requires that any evacuation costs are your responsibility.
• Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates. Encourage your friends and family to register as well if they plan to travel outside of the United States.
• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and NOAA have additional tips on their websites:
o https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
o http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ready.php
Stay informed:
• Monitor local radio, local media, and the National Hurricane Center (https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/) to be aware of weather developments.
• Inform your friends and family of your whereabouts. Remain in close contact with your tour operator, hotel staff and local officials for evacuation instructions during a weather emergency.
• Additional information on hurricanes and storm preparedness can be found on the Department’s “Hurricanes, Typhoons, and Cyclones” webpage.
Assistance:
•U.S. Embassy Tegucigalpa
Tel. (504) 2238-5114
USAHonduras@state.gov
•State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
•Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
