Nicaragua: Tropical Storm Eta forecast to strengthen before making landfall November 3

Event

Tropical Storm Eta is expected to strengthen as it tracks westwards in the Caribbean Sea towards Nicaragua and could become a hurricane before making landfall in either Nicaragua's north-eastern coast or Honduras' north-eastern coast on Tuesday, November 3. According to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) at 03:00 (local time), Eta was located around 805 km (500 mi) east of Cabo Gracias a Dios on the Nicaragua-Honduras border and tracking westwards at 24 kph (15 mph), carrying maximum sustained winds of up to 65 kph (40 mph).

The NHC has issued a Hurricane Watch for the north-eastern coast of Nicaragua from the Nicaragua-Honduras border to Puerto Cabeza (North Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region). Up to 762 mm (30 in) of rainfall is expected to fall through Thursday, November 5, and could result in flooding and landslides in the worst hit areas. Associated disruptions to transport, businesses, and utilities are possible during the coming days.

Context

Nicaragua is semi-regularly affected by tropical storm systems, which can approach from its Caribbean coast from June through November. These storms can be particularly ravaging for rural areas, many of which have suffered catastrophic damage from winds and flooding in the past.

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.