Hurricane Beryl Strikes Caribbean with Life-Threatening Winds and Storm Surges
Hurricane Beryl has made landfall on Carriacou Island in Grenada, according to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC). It has regained strength, causing life-threatening winds and dangerous storm surges. Warnings are in effect for Barbados, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Tobago. Airports and businesses across the Caribbean have shut down, with residents urged to seek shelter. Flights were canceled, and leaders emphasized the seriousness of the storm.
St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves urged people to take the storm seriously, recalling past hurricane devastation. He planned to shelter in his basement due to fears of roof damage. Beryl’s strength has fluctuated, recently upgraded to a category four. The NHC warned of potentially catastrophic wind damage, especially for St Vincent, the Grenadines, and Grenada. Hurricane shelters opened on Sunday evening.
Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley also urged vigilance, emphasizing the importance of preparation. Beryl is unusual for forming so early in the year, being the sixth major hurricane recorded in the Atlantic before July. NOAA predicts up to seven major hurricanes this year, influenced by high sea surface temperatures. Beryl rapidly developed from a tropical depression to a major hurricane in 42 hours. The region has prepared, with shops closed and residents stocking up on essentials. Grenada declared a state of emergency, and St Lucia imposed a national shutdown.