Flood Waters Recede Allowing Light Traffic on Coastal Plain Highway

Summary:
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development has reopened the Coastal Plain Highway to light traffic after it was closed due to significant flooding. Chief Engineer Evondale Moody noted that the flooding primarily affected the approaches to Manatee Bridge and Corn House Bridge, and motorists are advised to drive cautiously and monitor water depth gauges. The flooding was unexpected at Manatee Bridge, despite recent upgrades, while Corn House Bridge, designed as a floodway, behaved as anticipated. The Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Michelle Augustine, attributed the flooding to an abnormally high rainfall of nearly 13 inches in southern Belize within 24 hours. Rainfall is expected to decrease temporarily but may increase again over the weekend. The Ministry urges motorists to follow traffic regulations and use seatbelts.