The governor of the state of Quintana Roo has issued an orange alert for the entire state. This means that it is likely that there will be a hurricane strike within 24 hours. At this point it appears that Hurricane Dean will be landing in the southern portion of the state, near Tulum and the surrounding areas. The next update is expected around 3 o’clock local time.

Schools for the state will be closed on Monday. The Cancun and Cozumel airports are continuing operation at this time, all departing flights are reportedly full and more empty planes are expected to arrive to ferry out the tourists. The shelters are 100% ready to receive those displaced by the storm. Tourists that can not get a plane will be protected by the government. The Red Cross is prepared to bring any necessary assistance to the area. Three hundred federal police officers are expected to arrive tomorrow to assist in protection efforts. Tourists in hotels are not yet being evacuated, they will await further instructions. Travel agencies are being requested NOT to send any tourists to the area.

posted by CancunCanuck