Felix downgraded

Felix has been downgraded to a tropical storm. However, a "red alert" is still in effect for many areas of the country, including the Department of Olancho (where our friends live in Catacamas). The alert continues in those areas due to the heavy rains (up to 25 inches in mountainous areas like Catacamas, according to the linked article).

Catacamas sits at the bases of several small mountains, and very near a river which is nearly always swollen at this time of the year. There are concrete bridges which cross the river near Catacamas. Each time I have crossed the river, the bridges have been about 3 or 4 inches underwater. Needless to say, people living in remote areas are likely to be cut off from supplies and help for a while. There is one major road leading from Juticalpa (the capital of the Department) to Catacamas. It also runs along the base of those same mountains, and thus is likely to be flooded for a while.

I'm still awaiting news from Catacamas, either directly or via Stephen E. in Searcy. Updates as they become available.

Mark