Hurricane Iris Report


from the Belize Development Trust Volunteer Western Caribbean Hurricane Net
3:20 p.m. Miami Time, 1:15 p.m. Belize Time Oct 8, 2001

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The lull during the noon period of Miami Time seems over and the Hurricane has reformed an eye. Ground speed directly West seems to have resumed. The Hurricane Eye is currently north of Guanaja of the Bay Islands about 35 miles. The islands seem to be in the outer perimeter of the high velocity wind gusts.


Wind speeds continue to be said 140 mph., or Category 4.


Glovers Reef Atoll seem to be directly in the path of the Hurricane Eye. Currently wind speeds on Glovers Reef are estimated at 50 to 60 mph and are expected to climb to 120 to 140 mph in the next two hours, if the ground speed keeps up.


Most of the Belize Coast is overcast with rain squalls from the first lighter feeder band. This covers from the Cayes along the Barrier Reef in places to Orange Walk inland.


Dangriga, Mullins River, Long Caye, Caye Glory, Tobacco Caye, South Water Caye are in the path of the storm. No matter how rough the sea is right now, if they have motorized transport, they should get out. There will be no more chances by 5 p.m. Hopkins and Placentia should also evacuate in my opinion.


The fierce strong wind squalls around the eye, extend out about 8 miles on either side. It is probable, winds will be up to 90 mph as far as 18 miles from the eye wall. Caye Caulker should experience winds of 40 to 80 mph. But the sea will be bad with waves and some tidal rise. Flooding is expected on that beach. St. Georges Caye can expect winds up to 100 mph in gusts, with some tidal surge and pounding from waves. I expect San Pedro will suffer beach erosion.

Belize City should experience tidal rise and flooding in the streets of the city. Dangriga is going to get whopped good and citizens should remove themselves to higher ground back in the valley. They will suffer extremely high wind gusts as well as flooding. The big danger in Dangriga is going to be from flying debris, such as roof tops and flying zincs.


The storm is expected to pass by shortly after dark.

Ray Auxillou