Guatemala: Evacuations due to Hurricane Iota November 16
17 November 2020
Guatemala: Evacuations due to Hurricane Iota November 16
On Monday, November 16, the National Coordination for Disaster Reduction of Guatemala (CONRED) carried out preventative evacuations for residents in river basins at risk of flooding due to the presence of Hurricane Iota.
Iota made landfall over northeastern Nicaragua late on Monday and continues to track westwards across Central America on Tuesday, November 17. Whilst it is forecast to weaken on making landfall, heavy rain is expected across much of the region through at least Thursday, November 19.
The National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) has estimated that the areas likely to be most affected in Guatemala are the departments of Alta Verapaz, Izabal, Quiché, Huehuetenango, Petén, Zacapa, and Chiquimula.
Some of these areas could receive as much as 250-500 mm (10-20 in) of rain. CONRED is therefore carrying out preventative evacuations for those in the Usumacinta, La Pasión, Motagua, La Paz, Polochic, and Chixoy river basins.
CONRED has also deployed emergency response teams in preparation to many of these areas, established 1900 emergency shelters, and is preparing aid to be sent to affected areas.
source: CONRED
In spanish: Free translation
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