Honduras: Watches and warnings in effect for north-eastern coast due to approach of Hurricane Eta November 2 /update 1

Event

Tropical storm Eta strengthened into Hurricane Eta on Monday, November 2, and is expected to strengthen further ahead of making landfall over the north-eastern coast of Nicaragua early on Tuesday, November 3, possibly as a Category 2 hurricane. According to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) at 06:00 (local time), Eta was located 225 km (140 mi) east of Cabo Gracias a Dios on the Honduran-Nicaraguan border, traveling west at 17 kph (10 mph) and carrying maximum sustained winds of 150 kph (90 mph). Whilst the storm system is forecast to hit further south in Nicaragua early Tuesday, November 3, the NHC has several warnings and watches in effect for the north-eastern coast of Honduras. A Hurricane Watch and Tropical Storm Warning are in effect from Punta Patuca (Gracias a Dios department) to the Honduran-Nicaraguan border, and a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect west of Punta Patuca to Punta Castilla (Colón department).

Tropical storm-force winds are expected in the warning area from Monday afternoon and hurricane-force winds are possible by early Tuesday. Tropical storm-force winds are possible by early Tuesday in the watch area. Up to 890 mm (35 inches) of rainfall could fall in affected areas through Friday, November 6. A storm surge of up to 1.5 m (5 ft) is possible in coastal areas and dangerous swells and rip current conditions are expected at sea. Flooding and landslides are possible in affected areas and may lead to associated disruptions to transport, businesses, and utilities.

Context

Honduras is vulnerable to powerful storms and hurricanes from June to November. These storm systems have the potential to unleash heavy downpours and strong winds as well as storm surges that can wreak havoc in coastal areas. Travel and service delivery are also known to be affected. In addition, storm systems can cause rain-triggered floods and landslides, which pose considerable hazards to both human communities and infrastructure.

Advice

Those in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, including evacuation orders. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.