Tropical Storm Sara has unleashed heavy rainfall and severe flooding across northern Honduras, forcing residents to evacuate their homes and seek shelter.

The storm, which threatens neighboring Belize and Guatemala, is expected to intensify further, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC).

Sara is currently churning near Honduras’ Caribbean coast, close to popular beach resorts and ancient Maya ruins. Located just 35 miles (56 km) southwest of Guanaja island, the storm is packing winds of 50 mph (80 kph) and is forecast to strengthen slightly if it remains offshore.

The NHC predicts northern Honduras will receive between 15 and 25 inches (38-63 cm) of rain in the coming days, with isolated areas seeing as much as 35 inches. These rains are expected to trigger “life-threatening and potentially catastrophic flash flooding and mudslides,” the Miami-based center warned.

Honduran authorities have declared a national emergency as over 1,000 residents have sought refuge in shelters. Jose Jorge Fortin, head of the national risk management agency, urged people to avoid flood-prone areas, particularly those living near riverbanks, which are at high risk of landslides and flooding.

"We are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of our people," Fortin said during a press conference, emphasizing the importance of adhering to precautionary measures.

Sara is expected to move northwestward towards Belize starting on Sunday. The storm is forecast to bring significant rainfall to Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and parts of Mexico.

As the situation continues to evolve, authorities and emergency responders are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact of Tropical Storm Sara and ensure the safety of affected communities. (ILKHA)