WEATHER ALERT – U.S. Embassy Tegucigalpa, Honduras (November 2, 2020)
LOCATION: Honduras
EVENT:
Tropical Storm Eta has strengthened to a Category 3 hurricane and has become a major hurricane approaching Honduras’ Caribbean coast.
The National Hurricane Center warns that life-threatening storm surge, catastrophic winds, flash flooding, and landslides are expected across portions of Central America through Friday, November 6, 2020. Storm surge, along with battering waves water levels may reach as high as 12-18 feet above normal tide levels in portions of the hurricane warning area.
The Government of Honduras has issued a mandatory evacuation order for the departments of Gracias a Dios, Colón, Atlántida, Olancho, and the Bay Islands. Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion.
American citizens in the departments of Santa Barbara, Francisco Morazán, Comayagua, and El Paraiso are advised to prepare for possible inclement weather in the form of hurricane-force winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding.
American citizens in the departments of Copán, Ocotepeque, Lempira, Intibucá, La Paz, Valle, and Choluteca are advised to remain alert and continue monitoring weather reports.
ACTIONS TO TAKE:
- Monitor the National Hurricane Center for updates (https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/).
- Follow guidelines issued by local authorities (http://www.copeco.gob.hn).
- Seek secure shelter.
- Do not attempt to cross bodies of moving water.
- Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
- Prepare an emergency supply kit (ready.gov).
- Notify friends and family of your safety.
ASSISTANCE:
U.S. Embassy Tegucigalpa
https://hn.usembassy.gov/
Tel. (504) 2238-5114
USAHonduras@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
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