Meteorological authorities in Belize have issued advisories for significantly colder than average conditions expected throughout the weekend and into early next week. Chief Meteorologist Ronald Gordon confirmed that a sequence of two distinct cold fronts will traverse the nation, bringing notably low temperatures particularly unusual for the region.
Gordon indicated that the most severe cold spell will manifest from Sunday night through Monday morning. Coastal regions should anticipate temperatures plunging into the lower 60s Fahrenheit, while inland population centers including San Ignacio and Belmopan will experience more pronounced cold in the lower to mid-50s. The elevated terrain of Pine Ridge and similar mountain areas face the most extreme conditions, with forecasts suggesting temperatures could drop into the upper 40s.
The meteorological phenomenon driving these temperatures involves radiational cooling, a process where heat escapes rapidly into the atmosphere under clear nighttime skies. Gordon emphasized that despite the unusual cold, these temperatures do not represent record-breaking lows for Belize. Historical records indicate significantly colder episodes, including a February 1978 event when inland areas recorded 46°F and the international airport registered 52°F.
Precipitation associated with these frontal systems will be minimal, with predominantly clear conditions expected throughout the cooling period. Meteorological models project a gradual temperature recovery beginning midweek as the frontal influence weakens and typical weather patterns reestablish.