Continuing harsh weather conditions and the lack of communications with the affected regions are impairing assessment operations. Preliminary reports indicate that rivers continue to rise in the central and northwestern parts of the country and along river routes to the coast. The Western Highway linking Belize City to Belmopan and the west and south of Belize is beginning to flood and only high vehicles can now pass. Some bridges along the portion of road between the capital Belmopan and the rest of the Cayo district are near to being flooded. No deaths have been reported so far.
Preliminary requirements are most likely to be shelter and food.
National response 5. On 2 October 2000, the Government of Belize declared a national state of emergency, and all elements of the Belize Defence Force have been called out. The International Airport remains closed. NEMO informs that the key threat is now flooding and procedures are in place for evacuation from flooded areas and for search and rescue operations. No request for international assistance has been issued by the Government of Belize so far.