Intense rains leave 2 dead, more than 800 displaced and 17 000 affected in northeastern Honduras

Heavy downpour and strong winds hit Honduras, resulting in two fatalities and one missing in northeastern Honduras since February 28, 2020. More than 17 000 people have also been affected, according to the Standing Committee on Contingencies (COPECO).

The victims were identified as a 25-year-old and a 44-year-old, who died trying to cross a swollen river in La Masica in the department of Atlantida, on Saturday, February 29.

The tragedy occurred about 300 km (186 miles) northeast of the country's capital, Tegucigalpa. Furthermore, one person was also reported missing in the Caribbean Sea, prompting search and rescue operations to be conducted.

A landslide was also reported on the CA-13 highway in Atlantida due to heavy rain. COPECO warned motorists to take caution when passing by the road.

Authorities have declared a green alert on Monday, which activated the support of emergency teams in the Caribbean departments of Cortes, Atlantida, Yoro, Colon, and Gracias a Dios.

Overall, more than 17 700 people have been affected and over 164 houses were damaged. 27 communities in Atlantida were inaccessible due to the high water level of rivers, particularly the Lean, Esteban, Bambu, Coco, and Papaloteca.

Light rain is expected to continue over the affected region through Tuesday, March 3.

Julie Celestial

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