Nicaragua, Honduras: Tropical Depression Twenty-One moving northwestward over eastern Nicaragua as of early Oct. 24 /update 1

Event

Tropical Depression Twenty-One is tracking northwestward across eastern Nicaragua early Oct. 24. As of 05:00 EDT, the system's center of circulation was approximately 125 km (75 miles) north of Bluefields, Nicaragua.

Forecast models indicate that the storm will dissipate as it tracks west-northwestward towards central Nicaragua on Oct. 24. However, the system is likely to bring heavy rainfall to parts of Nicaragua and Honduras through at least late Oct. 24. Additional rainfall totals of 10-20 cm (4-8 inches), with maximum rainfall amounts of 30 cm (12 inches), are forecast across Nicaragua. The system is also forecast to produce additional rainfall totals of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches), with maximum rainfall amounts of 15 cm (6 inches), across southern and eastern Honduras. The heavy rainfall will likely cause flash and urban flooding, especially in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Consequent landslides are also possible in elevated terrain.

Nicaragua's National System for Disaster Prevention, Mitigation, and Attention (SINAPRED) has issued yellow warning alerts (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for the North Caribbean Coast and South Caribbean Coast autonomous regions and green warning alerts across the rest of the country.

The inclement weather could trigger evacuations as well as localized disruptions to business, transport, and utilities. The system may also render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports cannot be ruled out. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding often increase the incidence of insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.

Advice

Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.

Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the storm's path, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.

Resources

US National Hurricane Center
Nicaragua National System for Disaster Prevention, Mitigation, and Attention (SINAPRED)