| Country | Impact |
|---|---|
| Barbados | Power outages, downed utility poles, roof damage, and wind gusts up to 69 mph |
| Grenada | Maximum wind speeds of 130 mph, severe damage to infrastructure |
| St. Vincent and the Grenadines | Severe damage to infrastructure, emergency response priorities include logistics and relief management |
| Jamaica | Projected to be the strongest hurricane in at least 20 years, hurricane warnings issued |
| Cayman Islands | Expected to be impacted early on Thursday |
| Windward Islands | Life-threatening winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous storm surge flooding |
Hurricane Beryl, a powerful Category 4 storm, has been tearing through the southeast Caribbean, causing significant damage and impacting several countries in its path. This article provides a comprehensive update on the current situation, focusing on the impact on Barbados and the wider Caribbean region.
Barbados Hurricane Update
Although Hurricane Beryl is passing south of Barbados, the storm has already brought wind gusts of up to 69 mph to the island. Officials have urged people to stay indoors until an all-clear is given. The outer bands of the hurricane have begun to impact Barbados and St. Lucia with heavy rains and strong winds. Emergency services are on high alert, and residents are advised to stay off the roads and seek immediate shelter.
Impact on the Caribbean
Grenada
Hurricane Beryl has brought maximum wind speeds of 130 mph to Grenada, causing severe damage to infrastructure. First assessments indicate that three people have died, and more than 1,600 people are in shelters. Over 98% of the buildings in the Union, Carriacou, and Petit Martinique islands have been severely affected, with most health facilities compromised and the terminal building at Carriacou airport damaged.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, emergency response priorities include logistics and relief management support, such as temporary shelter arrangements, warehouse management, and transportation. Waste management, including debris removal and human waste management, is also a significant concern. Due to telecommunication issues, the full extent of damage in Mayreau and Canouan remains unknown, but similar severe damage is expected.
Jamaica
Hurricane Beryl is projected to be the strongest hurricane to hit Jamaica in at least 20 years. The National Hurricane Center has issued a warning, stating that Jamaica is expected to face devastating hurricane-force winds, life-threatening storm surges, and destructive waves starting later in the day. Even if Beryl bypasses Jamaica directly, its effects could still be felt severely between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. ET, when the winds are predicted to be most forceful.
Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands are likely to be impacted early on Thursday, with the National Hurricane Center warning of destructive waves and life-threatening storm surges.
Windward Islands
The Windward Islands, including Dominica, Martinique, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, and Grenada, are bracing for life-threatening winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous storm surge flooding as Hurricane Beryl approaches.
Conclusion
Hurricane Beryl has already caused significant damage in the Caribbean, with Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines being particularly affected. Jamaica and the Cayman Islands are expected to face severe impacts as the storm continues its westward path. Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay informed, follow emergency instructions, and prioritize their safety.
