Tropical Storm Sara is currently causing heavy rainfall in northeastern Honduras, leading to the potential for life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides over the weekend. As of Friday morning, some areas in Honduras have already experienced nearly 20 inches of rain, with more expected to come.
Initially, there were concerns about Sara potentially impacting the US Gulf Coast, but the National Hurricane Center now believes the storm may not survive its journey through Central America and Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula.
Sara, the 18th named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, formed on Thursday near the Honduras-Nicaragua border. This season has been particularly active, defying initial forecasts and norms for tropical activity in November.
The ongoing heavy rainfall from Sara poses a significant risk of 'life-threatening' flooding in Honduras, with some areas potentially receiving up to 30 inches of rain. This could result in widespread flash flooding and mudslides across Central America.
After affecting Honduras, Sara is expected to move towards Belize, bringing storm surge and strong winds. Tropical storm alerts are in place for Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize, with additional alerts likely for more areas in the region.
Despite earlier uncertainties about Sara's path, it now seems that the storm will likely dissipate over Central America and Mexico, sparing the storm-weary US Gulf Coast from further impact. This is welcome news for a region that has already endured multiple hurricanes this year.
Overall, Sara serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of tropical storms and the importance of preparedness in vulnerable regions.
