NEMO holds last meeting to officially Close the Hurricane Season 2010

Hurricane season 2010 started on June 1^st and promised to be one of the most active in recent years. With twenty names listed: Alex, Bonnie, Collin, Danielle, Earl, Fiona Gaston, Hermine, Igor, Julia, Karl, Lisa, Matthew, Nicole, Otto, Paula, Richard, Sharry, Thomas, Virginie and Walter, hurricane season 2010 was well underway. For us here in Belize, the threats didn’t start until September 14^th.

What started off as an area of interest, I92L out in the Caribbean, moved westward and reached tropical storm status “Tropical Storm Karl” late Tuesday afternoon, September 14^th. At about 7:30am on Wednesday September 15^th, the center of tropical storm Karl made landfall just north of the country of Belize, passing through and going towards Chetumal, Mexico with maximum sustained winds of about 45 mph. The extent of the tropical storm covered the area between San Pedro and Belize City, covering the Orange Walk and Corozal Districts and northward over the Yucatan Peninsula.

This was the first threat that placed the country on high alert and even made landfall.

This was followed shortly after by Matthew and Richard. Hurricane Richard was the 17^th named storm and the 10^th hurricane of the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season.

Richard developed from an area of low pressure that stalled in the Caribbean Sea in mid-October. It slowly organized and was declared a tropical storm and given the name Richard on October 20^th 2010. At around 5:40pm on October 24^th, Hurricane Richard made landfall about 20 miles south-southeast of Belize City at peak intensity with wind gusts of about 90-100mph.

Through all these threats and in some cases, hurricanes, the National Emergency Management Organization NEMO and its various sub bodies, including the members of the Emergency Operating Committee were instrumental in maintaining order and keeping residents of both islands safe.

Miss Jeromey Timrose Augustine, DEC District Emergency Co-ordinator for Belize Rural south which includes San Pedro and Caye Caulker, will be hosting a final meeting for the hurricane season 2010. The meeting is scheduled for Friday November 26^th at 2:00pm. The purpose of this meeting is to officially close the hurricane season as well as issue Certificates of Appreciation and awards to outstanding chair persons and members of the Emergency Operating Committee EOC that have supported NEMO throughout the Hurricane Season.

The San Pedro Sun congratulates all members of NEMO, the EOC, Public Servants as well as volunteers that worked tirelessly throughout all the threats that we faced in the past months, to keep us all informed and safe

Belize Audubon Society re‐opens St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park.

P R E S S R E L E A S E
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Dirk Francisco, Publicity Officer
Telephone: (work) 223‐5004/4987/4988
Email: publicity@belizeaudubon.org
Website: www.belizeaudubon.org
Media available: none


Belize City, Belize, November 16th, 2010 ‐ ‐ Belize Audubon Society is pleased to announce the re‐opening of the St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park. BAS park directors and wardens have been working ceaselessly in the aftermath of Hurricane Richard to clear the fallen debris from the trails and get the park back to normal operations. The park was re‐opened to the public on Monday, November 15th, 2010. Visitors once again have access to the Blue Hole, St. Herman’s and Crystal Caves; and other activities. A couple of trails, however, have remained closed for ecological reasons so the vegetation in those areas has the opportunity to regenerate. Opening hours for St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park are 8:00am ‐ 4:30pm every day.

Please note that Guanacaste National Park, which was also greatly affected by Hurricane Richard, remains closed until further notice.

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St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park (SHBHNP) is located twelve miles southeast of Belmopan on the Hummingbird Highway. Established in 1986, SHBHNP encompasses 575 acres of riverine forests co‐managed by the Belize Audubon Society.
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ABOUT THE BELIZE AUDUBON SOCIETY
The Belize Audubon Society (BAS) is a non-governmental membership organization dedicated to the sustainable management of Belize’s natural resources through leadership and strategic partnership with stakeholders in order to create a balance between people and the environment.

US $10,000 Grant awarded to Lions Zone 59 to aid Hurricane Richard victims

-Press Release - Belize Lions Zone 59 - November 2, 2010 - The Belize Lions Zone 59 is pleased to announce the disbursement of a grant of US$10,000 to be used for relief supplies to the victims of Hurricane Richard. The money was secured through the Lions Club International Foundation (LCIF) Disaster Relief Fund which is available to any district or zone after a disaster.

Immediately after the passage of Hurricane Richard, The Belize Lions Zone 59 expressed to the Prime Minister of Belize, Hon Dean Barrow, that as a service organization in Belize, we were ready to assist in bringing some immediate relief to the victims of hurricane Richard.
Following the announcement of the initial assessment of the damages, The Zone Chairman, Baldemar Graniel, immediately contacted Lions International and provided them with the necessary documentation to secure the grant. On Monday November 1st, LCIF contacted the Zone Chairman to inform him that the monies have been approved and ready for disbursement.
LCIF has a board-established grant criterion and emergency grant funds must be used only to provide basic necessities such as food, clothing, blankets, bottled water, and medical supplies for those affected by the disaster. Because monies must be utilized by the Lions, the organization will be working very closely with the Government of Belize, through the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), in identifying areas that are more in need. In the immediate days ahead, the Zone Chairman, Lion Graniel will be consulting with the Presidents of the Club to work out a methodology of disbursing relief supplies.
The LCIF grant will complement the efforts of various other Lions Clubs following the aftermath of Hurricane Richard. The Lions Club International Foundation, along with the Belize Lions Zone 59, continues to pledge its full support to all those Belizeans affected by Hurricane Richard and we remain committed in making our community and country a better place to live. On behalf of the Belize Lions Zone 59 and the people of Belize, we also wish to thank LCIF for awarding us with the much needed grant.

BEL Provides Update on Restoration Works

Released: October 28, 2010

BEL Provides Update on Restoration Works

As a follow up to the second press release sent on the evening of October 27, 2010, Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) provides the below status report as of 3:30 p.m. today.

AREAS

Lords Bank Village power was fully restored on Wednesday night. However, a section of the community lost power supply today, as a result of a burnt utility pole. This section should be restored by midnight.

Along the Western Highway from Bainsville to Mile 25 and Franks Eddy to La Democracia power was restored to most areas between Franks Eddy and La Democracia, including Mahogany Heights on Wednesday night. There remain approximately 50 customers without power as a result of damaged low voltage power lines. Power to these customers should be restored by midnight.

Bainsville to Mile 25 should be restored by midnight.

All of Freetown Sibun and Gracie Rock. Approximately 50 customers remain without power. Power should be restored by midnight on Friday.

Belize River Valley from Scotland Halfmoon to Rancho Dolores and Lemonal
Power was restored to approximately 20 customers today. Approximately 30 more remain without power. Restoration of power to these customers remains on schedule for midnight.

Along the Hummingbird Highway from Alta Vista to St. Margaret’s power fully restored on Wednesday night.

Mullins River on schedule to be restored by midnight. Approximately 40 customers are without power.

In Dangriga and surrounding areas, we have identified approximately 100 customers that are currently without power. Power should be restored to most of these customers by midnight on Friday.

In Belmopan and surrounding areas, we have approximately 100 customers reporting no power. Power should be restored to most of these customers by midnight on Friday.

In Belize City and surrounding areas, we have approximately 130 customers reporting no power. Power should be restored to most of these customers by midnight on Friday.

Customers outside of the above-mentioned areas are asked to call BEL to make a report, if they remain without power. Call BEL at 0800-235-2273 or 0800-BEL-CARE.

BEL thanks customers for their patience, during these power restoration works.

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Belize Audubon Society announces closure of two National Parks

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Amanda Burgos-Acosta, Advocacy Program Manager
Telephone: (work) 223-5004/4987/4988
Email: advocacy@belizeaudubon.org
Website: www.belizeaudubon.org
Media available: none

P R E S S R E L E A S E

Belize Audubon Society announces closure of two National Parks

Belize City, Belize, Thursday, October 28, 2010 - -On October 24th the passing of Hurricane Richard had disastrous impacts on the country of Belize. Our protected areas were not spared; two of the most affected protected areas are Guanacaste National Park and St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park. Both sites incurred tremendous damage with large amounts of trees having fallen. The closure of these protected areas is necessary for the safety of all concerned as damages have made most trails impassable and dangerous. The Belize Audubon Society will issue a public notice informing the public of the re-opening of these protected areas. We ask that all citizens and visitors be advised of this notice.
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The Belize Audubon Society (BAS) is a non-governmental membership organization dedicated to the sustainable management of Belize’s natural resources through leadership and strategic partnership with stakeholders in order to create a balance between people and the environment.

San Pedro Community Relief Fund Established For Hurricane Richard Victims

Community groups and leaders met this evening to determine how the community of San Pedro can assist families on the mainland who have suffered the consequences of Hurricane Richard. With reports of over 200 homes damaged during the storm, and under the directive of Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. who attended today’s Cabinet meeting, it was determined that building supplies were paramount in assisting those in need. A San Pedro Community Relief Fund has been established and fund raising efforts are slated to begin tomorrow.

Students are encouraged to bring $1 to school tomorrow and a street-side collection drive will be held in front of Reef Radio beginning at 7am. A Belize Bank account will be opened where donations can be made as well. Fund raising efforts will continue through Thursday.

On Friday plans are for representatives from the Community Relief Fund to travel to Belmopan where they will present NEMO Head Quarters with the monies raised. In turn NEMO will use the donation to obtain the building supplies necessary for rebuilding and repairing the damaged homes.

For more information on donating to this worth cause please contact the Reef Radio at 226-4054.

Power Restored to 83% of Customers Who Lost Electricity Supply during Hurricane Richard

-Press Release - Tuesday, October 26, 2010 - Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) - As of 5:00 p.m. today, Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has restored power to approximately 83 per cent of customers who lost power supply during the passage of Hurricane Richard.

In the Southern Zone, works today were concentrated mostly in Dangriga Town as power supply was fully restored to Independence, Punta Gorda and surrounding areas on Monday. Power supply has since been restored to 75% of Dangriga and surrounding areas. In the Western Zone, most areas were also restored by last night and today more sections in Belmopan and San Ignacio were restored, bringing the total percentage with power in the Western Zone to 91. In the Central Zone (Belize City and surrounding communities) power has been restored to 70% of affected customers.

BEL expects to restore power to most of the remaining affected areas by later tonight. There may still be pockets of customers who will remain without power, due to extensively damaged infrastructure, such as customer-owned service connections. These customers need to remain disconnected in order to carry out repairs.

As part of the restoration works, BEL work crews are thoroughly inspecting distribution power lines as well as service connections to customers’ homes and businesses to ensure that it is safe to energize each community. BEL must ensure that these issues are addressed before energizing power systems in various communities because low hanging wires and wires lying in water present a critical safety hazard to the public.

BEL thanks customers for their patience and will continue to provide updated information as it becomes available.

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BEL Working to Restore Power Following Passage of Hurricane Richard

Press Release - October 25, 2010 - BEL - Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) advises that the Company conducted a damage assessment earlier today and has commenced restoration works to provide power supply to areas affected by power outages since the passage of Hurricane Richard on Sunday.

The hurricane caused downed power lines and damaged utility poles in several parts of the Belize and Cayo Districts. Employees are working diligently to restore power as soon as possible with top priority placed on restoration to critical services such as hospitals.

As part of the restoration works, BEL work crews are thoroughly inspecting distribution power lines as well as service connections to customers’ homes and businesses to ensure that it is safe to energize each community. BEL must ensure that these issues are addressed before energizing power systems in various communities because live wires lying in water presents a critical safety hazard to the public.

Customers along the Western Highway from La Democracia to Blackman Eddy may not have power restored until Tuesday due to extensively damaged transmission lines.

Power supply has been restored to Independence Village, Punta Gorda Town and surrounding areas. The Company expects to restore power to approximately 50% of customers in Dangriga Town and surrounding areas some time today, while repairs to damaged infrastructure continues.

In Belmopan, San Ignacio and surrounding areas, the Company is aiming to restore power supply to at least 80% of customers by later tonight.

In Belize City, power will likely be restored to 60% of customers tonight and in Ladyville and Hattieville, 90% of customers.

Pockets of customers in all affected areas will remain without power due to extensively damaged infrastructure and these areas need to remain disconnected in order to carry out repairs.

The Northern Zone, which includes the Corozal and Orange Walk Districts and San Pedro Town were not affected by power outages due to Hurricane Richard.

BEL thanks customers for their patience and will continue to provide updated information as it becomes available.

-END-

BTB Reports Travel Destinations Are In Good Shape

As of 10:00 a.m. MST today, the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is reporting all key tourism destinations are in good shape following the passing of Hurricane Richard. The eye of Hurricane Richard reportedly made landfall around 7:45 pm MST on Sunday along the coast of Belize, roughly 20 miles south-southwest of Belize City. According to the National Hurricane Center in Miami, maximum sustained winds at landfall were estimated at 90 mph.

As of this morning, the Belize National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) gave clearance for all in-country transportation services to resume operation, and the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (PGIA) in Belize City has reopened, allowing all airline carriers to resume flights in to Belize. While NEMO posted its last official report online at 7:20 p.m. MST on Sunday, the BTB has learned major tourist destinations including San Pedro and Caye Caulker have electricity and running water, and are in good condition. Destinations like Placencia, Punta Gorda and Hopkins are reportedly in good shape, however, electricity has not yet been restored.

While damage assessments are still underway, early reports indicate the areas primarily affected by Hurricane Richard are in and around Belize City. Richard’s overall impact in Belize City includes flooding, power outages and downed trees. Any additional information regarding Hurricane Richard can be found through NEMO’s website, www.nemo.org.bz or by calling the emergency line at (501) 822-0153.

Those attempting to reach family members or loved ones vacationing in Belize may experience some communication delays with e-mail and phone. However, the public is encouraged to visit the BTB’s emergency online site, www.belizeemergency.net, for the latest updates and information regarding any and all restoration efforts.

Images of Richard

While San Pedro hunkered down for Hurricane Richard many residents could not resist going to the beach to admire the waves. Although there was plenty of rain, the winds did not exceed 50mph. Some piers along the beach sustained damage and beach side foliage took a beating as well.

On the mainland damage assessments are still underway, with early reports indicating that the areas primarily affected by Hurricane Richard are in and around Belize City. Belize City is currently without electricity in many areas and Internet services throughout the country are intermittent.

SP Lion's Club Collects Donations for Hurricane Richard Victims

The International Lions Club of San Pedro is collecting donations of clothing and canned foods for the mainland victims of Hurricane Richard. The SP Lion’s Den will be open this afternoon and all day tomorrow where donations can be dropped off.

For more information please contact President Melanie Paz at 620-1281.

NEMO Gives An "All Clear" as of 7AM

Although San Pedro and neighboring cayes have some cleaning up to do after Hurricane Richard passed through last night, we are happy to report that all is well on the island. More photos to come!

This photo was taken this morning by Elbert Greer.

San Pedro Weathers the Storm

The residents of San Pedro are braced for the effects of Hurricane Richard and it seems that those who have stayed on the island are well prepared for the weather. Heavy rain showers and intermittent winds have occurred throughout the day and according to reports the rain and winds will continue until approximately 9PM tonight. Belize Water Services has terminated water supplies until 8AM tomorrow and Belize Electric Limited warns of pending power outages.

Below photos provided by our Facebook friends, Forrest Jones, Ruth Varrellas, Linda Carter, Portofino, Blue Tang Inn and Denise Stevens.

BEL Advises of Power System Performance Related to the Approaching Hurricane Richard

Immediate Release: Sunday, October 24, 2010
Contact: Vonetta Burrell – Public Relations Officer
E-mail: Vonetta.Burrell@bel.com.bz
BEL Advises of Power System Performance Related to the Approaching
Hurricane Richard

Released: October 24, 2010

BEL Advises of Power System Performance Related to the Approaching Hurricane Richard

Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) advises that in the event there is loss of power supply due to damages caused by Hurricane Richard, the Company will dispatch work crews to the field as soon as it is safe to do so. If weather conditions are such that it would make it unsafe for work crews, works will be delayed until conditions improve.

If there are significant damages to the power system, customers are advised to be prepared for power outages up to 48 hours in duration. Customers are also asked to call BEL at 0-800-235-2273 or 0-800-BEL-CARE to report any damages to power lines.

-END-

NEMO Public Advisory #8- Tropical Storm Richard

Press Releases
NEMO Public Advisory #8- Tropical Storm Richard
By NEMO Information Unit
Oct 24, 2010, 03:18 pm

NEMO Public Advisory #8
Hurricane Richard

At 3:00 p.m. the center of the Hurricane Richard was located near Latitude 17.2 North, Longitude 88.0 West, located 25 miles East South East of Belize City. The Hurricane is moving towards the West North West at 13 miles per hour. Maximum sustained winds remain near 90 miles per hour with higher gusts. The Hurricane Warning and Phase III of the NEMO Hurricane Preparedness Plan is still in effect for Belize.

During a Hurricane

o Stay inside

o Stay away from flood areas

o Close all interior doors, secure and brace all external doors

o All vessels should remain in port.

o DO NOT LISTEN TO RUMORS! Stay tune to your radio and television for advisories from NEMO and the National Met Service. Listen to the official authorities of NEMO and the MET Service.

o Remain vigilant and be prepared for heavy winds and rains which can cause life threatening floods.


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NEMO Public Advisory #7- Tropical Storm Richard

Press Releases
NEMO Public Advisory #7- Tropical Storm Richard
By NEMO Information Unit
Oct 24, 2010, 12:00 pm

NEMO Public Advisory #7
Hurricane Richard

At 12:00 midday the center of the Hurricane Richard was located near Latitude 17.1 North, Longitude 87.5 West, located 55 miles East South East of Belize City. The Hurricane is moving towards the West North West at 13 miles per hour. Maximum sustained winds remain near 85 miles per hour with higher gusts. The Hurricane Warning and Phase III of the NEMO Hurricane Preparedness Plan is still in effect for the coast of Belize.

The center of Hurricane Richard is expected to make landfall on Belize this evening as a Category 1 Hurricane.

All public transport operations (buses) have been ceased effective 10:00 a.m. this morning, except for transit buses that will complete their runs to the North at 2:00 p.m. this afternoon. The safety of the public is of ultimate importance.

All private motor vehicles are advised to avoid travelling by 1:00 p.m. this afternoon.

People living in Dangriga and Communities in the Stann Creek District who have not yet evacuated to safety are advised to seek Shelters immediately.

People living in vulnerable areas within Belize City who have not yet evacuated to safety are advised to seek Shelters immediately.

People who are planning to leave Dangriga and Belize City and have not done so as yet are advised to seek Shelters immediately.

o Travelling to the Cayes is not advised.

o Mariners are advised not to go to sea. All vessels should remain in port.

o By now all Hurricane plans should be in action.

o Remember stay tune to your radio and television over the weekend!

The public is advised to remain vigilant and to be prepared for heavy winds and rains which can cause life threatening floods. Continue listening to the local radio and television stations for further advisories from the NEMO and the National Met Service.


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NEMO Public Advisory #6 - Tropical Storm Richard

Press Releases
NEMO Public Advisory #6 - Tropical Storm Richard
By NEMO Information Unit
Oct 24, 2010, 09:00 am


NEMO Public Advisory #6
Tropical Storm Richard

At 6:00 a.m. the center of the Tropical Storm Richard was located near Latitude 16.8 North, Longitude 86.4 West, located 130 miles East South East of Belize City. The Storm is moving towards the West at 10 miles per hour. Maximum sustained winds remain near 70 miles per hour with higher gusts. The Hurricane Warning and Phase III of the NEMO Hurricane Preparedness Plan is still in effect for the coast of Belize.

The center of TS Richard is expected to make landfall on Belize this evening as a Category 1 Hurricane.

People living in coastal communities including: San Pedro and Caye Caulker, Mullins River, Monkey River, Placencia, Seine Bight, Punta Negra, Hopkins, Sarteneja and who believe their homes would not withstand 50 mph winds or do not feel safe at their homes are advised to seek shelter. Shelters for coastal districts have been opened from 6:00 p.m. yesterday October 23, 2010.

People living in Stann Creek and neighboring Communities are advised to evacuate to Shelters.

o Travelling to the Cayes is not advised.

o Mariners are advised not to go to sea.

o If you have to evacuate do so early. If you are going to Shelter take along those things you will need. Your life is the most valuable possession.

o By now all Hurricane plans should be in action.

o If you live in an area that will flood move your family and belongings to safety.

o Remember stay tune to your radio and television over the weekend!

People who have livestock areas that are likely to flood should move them to safety. Farmers in areas that normally flood who have crops in the fields should harvest them.

NEMO strongly advise those people in Gales point, Lord's Bank and Lucky Strike who are refusing to move, to understand that you take responsibility of the consequences of your decisions.

Employers cannot stop employees from safe guarding their lives in times of national threat to Belize.

The public is advised to remain vigilant and to be prepared for heavy winds and rains which can cause life threatening floods. Continue listening to the local radio and television stations for further advisories from the NEMO and the National Met Service.



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