Tropical Storm Agatha

Jun 2, 2010 1:51:08 AM | GB News Tropical Storm Agatha

Global Brigades has been keeping a close eye on Tropical Storm Agatha, which made landfall in Guatemala on May 29th and is responsible for severe flooding and over 140 fatalities. Most damage and loss of life has been centered on Guatemala City, with El Salvador and Honduras also experiencing the storm’s residual impact. Agatha was […]

Global Brigades has been keeping a close eye on Tropical Storm Agatha, which made landfall in Guatemala on May 29th and is responsible for severe flooding and over 140 fatalities. Most damage and loss of life has been centered on Guatemala City, with El Salvador and Honduras also experiencing the storm’s residual impact.
Agatha was categorized as a tropical storm for only 12 hours, but caused massive destruction in Guatemala. In some regions, rainfall of up to six inches occurred in 24 hours leading to flooding, landslides, and sinkholes. Worsening the situation in Guatemala was the eruption of Pacaya Volcano, approximately 25 miles south of Guatemala City, on May 27th. The volcano spewed ash, rocks and debris which could be responsible for causing worse landslides and clogged drainage systems in Guatemala.
Global Brigades would like to ensure its members, supporters and participants that all our volunteers and staff members are safe. None of the communities in which we work have been affected by the storm, and our volunteers are not in harm’s way. The National Weather Service has downgraded the storm to a tropical depression and meteorologists have reported that the storm began dissipating on Sunday, one day after it touched down. The airport in Tegucigalpa, Honduras is open and predicted to remain open. We will continue to provide updates and monitor the situation, and if you have any questions please contact us directly.
Global Brigades is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life and destruction in Guatemala. We are sending our thoughts and energy to the people of Guatemala, and to all of those affected by the storm’s residual impact across Central America.

Written By: Guest Writer