Belize, 8 October 2001

Belize

Two PAHO/WHO disaster response specialists will arrive in Belize on 9 October with a team from the Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (USAID/OFDA).

As a preventive measure, an evacuation of Belize's main hospital began at 11 a.m. local time. A mandatory evacuation was completed of the coastal villages and islands of Stan Creek and Toledo coastal villages (approximately 50,000 persons). Evacuation of Belize City is voluntary.

The Emergency Operations Center in Belize City has been activated and the Ministry of Health has distributed the rapid needs assessment forms.

A SUMA team is on stand by and the Stress Management Team (SMID) to be alerted. PAHO/WHO is in Belmopan and is in close contact with Ministry of Health.

Honduras

PAHO/WHO staff on standby and in contact with counterparts in the country. First impact expected after 4 pm local time on the islands of la Bahia

Mexico

There is a Hurricane Watch in the Yucatan Peninsula. The Ministry of Health is ready to mobilize professionals from the central level.

Guatemala

The PAHO/WHO office is in close contact with the Ministry of Health. The disaster plan, including hospital plans, have been activated in several places including the departments of Isabel and Zacapa.