Hurricane Dean travel warnings relaxed

Holidaymakers are no longer being advised against all travel to Jamaica, Belize or Mexico's Yucatan peninsula after Hurricane Dean passed.

The Foreign Office explained the Category 5 hurricane - the highest intensity that a hurricane can be ranked - crossed the Yucatan peninsula yesterday and is now expected hit central or north-eastern Mexico today. It has now been classified as a Category 1 hurricane.

"All British nationals on the Gulf Coast, or in central, eastern and northern parts of Mexico should monitor local and international weather updates and follow the advice of the local authorites," the Foreign Office advised.

For the latest travel advice on Mexico see the Mexico Foreign Office travel advice page.

Travel warnings were also relaxed for Belize. Holidaymakers are now advised to avoid all but essential travel to coastal areas of the Central American country.

"[Hurricane Dean] has caused extensive damage to infrastructure, particularly in the northern regions of Corozal and Orange Walk. Visitors are advised against travelling to these areas until further notice," warned the Foreign Office.

The Belize tourist board explained the southern edge of the hurricane passed through the north of the country, "bringing heavy rains, local flooding and large waves along the coast."

It added: "With the exception of the northern Corozal district, early estimates and initial hotel reports indicate minimal damage in Orange Walk, San Pedro and Caye Caulker.

"There was no damage sustained in Belize City, western and southern Belize and hotels and businesses in these areas are open and operational."

For more information on the post-hurricane situation in Belize see www.belizeemergency.net or the Belize Foreign Office travel advice page.

In Jamaica, the Foreign Office reports Kingston Airport has re-opened and visitors are travelling without problems. The hurricane had passed 40 miles south of Jamaica earlier this week.

For the latest travel advice on Jamaica see the Jamaica Foreign Office travel advice page.