Nicaragua: Tropical Storm Iota forecast to make landfall as major hurricane on November 16

Event

The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) has announced that Tropical Storm Iota is expected to make landfall near the Honduras-Nicaragua border as a major hurricane late on Monday, November 16, or early on Tuesday, November 17. Winds of up to 193kph (120mph) are forecast, meaning that it may make landfall as a Category 3 hurricane. Significant flooding and landslides are a possibility in Nicaragua, where recovery efforts are still underway following the passage of Hurricane Eta in early November.

As of 04:00 (EST) on Saturday, November 14, Iota was located 920km (570mi) east of the Honduras-Nicaragua border, with maximum sustained winds of 65kph (40mph). No warnings or watches have been issued at this time.

Heavy rainfall could cause floods and landslides in some areas, along with associated disruptions to transport, businesses, and utilities.

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.