The National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the United States has reported that Tropical Depression 19 has intensified, forming Tropical Storm Sara. The storm now boasts maximum sustained winds reaching 40 mph (65 km/h), with even stronger gusts anticipated.
Authorities are issuing warnings about heavy rainfall, the potential for catastrophic flooding, and landslides across Central America, with a particular focus on Honduras. The storm is expected to impact the eastern coast of Honduras in the coming hours. As of 1:00 p.m., the storm's center was located approximately 205 miles (330 km) east-southeast of Isla Guanaja, Honduras, and about 53 miles (85 km) northeast of Cabo Gracias a Dios, near the Honduras-Nicaragua border.
While maintaining a westward path, Sara's movement has decelerated to 12 mph (19 km/h), a reduction of about 3 mph from its previous speed. Forecasts indicate that Sara will continue its westward trajectory, approaching Honduras's eastern coast later today.
Potential Impact and Forecast
By Friday night and into the weekend, the system is expected to move erratically near Honduras's northern coastline, possibly affecting Belize, Guatemala, and western Nicaragua. Although a slight strengthening of the storm is predicted while it remains over water, its intensity could fluctuate based on atmospheric conditions.
Despite being outside the immediate path, western Cuba and central and southern Florida are advised to remain alert. Meteorologist José Rubiera emphasized in his latest YouTube report that these regions should closely monitor the development of Tropical Storm Sara. He explained that while the storm is currently moving west, it might shift northeast next week due to anticipated atmospheric changes.
Current Alerts and Warnings
Tropical Storm Warning: The northern coast of Honduras, from Punta Sal to the Nicaraguan border, including the Bay Islands.
Tropical Storm Watch: The northeastern Nicaraguan coast, from Puerto Cabezas to the Honduran border.
Rainfall and Flooding Threats
In northern Honduras, Sara could bring rainfall accumulations of 10 to 20 inches (25 to 50 cm), with potential peaks of up to 30 inches (75 cm). These downpours pose a significant risk of flash flooding and landslides, particularly in mountainous areas like Sierra La Esperanza.
Elsewhere in Honduras, as well as in Belize, eastern Guatemala, western Nicaragua, and parts of El Salvador, rainfall is anticipated to range from 5 to 10 inches (12 to 25 cm), with isolated areas receiving up to 15 inches (38 cm). These conditions may lead to hazardous flooding and landslides, especially in mountainous or low-lying regions.
Strong Winds and Storm Surge
Tropical storm-force winds, reaching up to 40 mph (65 km/h), are expected in the warning zones soon, with stronger gusts possible along coastal areas. Residents should secure structures and take precautionary measures, particularly in homes and areas vulnerable to high winds.
Along the northern coast of Honduras, storm surges could raise water levels by 1 to 3 feet above normal tide levels in affected coastal regions. This increase, along with intense and destructive waves generated by the storm, may lead to coastal erosion and pose threats to communities and vessels in the area.