According to EMDAT 1500 persons perished, A wave swept over the Capital Belize City . The city was submerged all over by 5 feet of water with small boats being carried inland as a result of the storm. Six city blocks were completely wiped out. Part of the city with debris and bodies was burned to prevent the spread of disease. 70 % of the city was destroyed. Many in the capital were left homeless as a result. Radio facilities in the capital were put out of order by the storm.