Hurricane Beryl has claimed at least 10 lives in the Caribbean region after hitting Jamaica on Wednesday. Over 400,000 residents are left without electricity, and the storm has caused millions of euros in infrastructure damage.
The category 4 hurricane battered the Caribbean island, forcing over a thousand Jamaicans to seek refuge in shelters. Fatalities were reported in Jamaica (1), Grenada (3), Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (3), and Venezuela (3), with five individuals still missing in Venezuela.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Beryl was advancing with maximum sustained winds of 220 km/h towards Mexico. It is expected to reach the Yucatan Peninsula, a major tourist area, by Thursday night or early Friday morning. According to Reuters, the storm is less than 800 km away from the region's beaches.
In recent hours, having weakened to category 3, Beryl has started affecting the Cayman Islands with strong winds and dangerous storm surges, according to a bulletin from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in the United States. As of 5:00 am (Miami time), maximum sustained winds had decreased to 195 km/h, and the hurricane's center was moving west-northwest at about 31 km/h.
In Cuba, the hurricane has already caused rainfall and storm surges along the southeastern coast, and feeder bands are affecting several provinces in the central part of the island.
Hurricane Beryl's Impact and Safety Measures
Here, we address some frequently asked questions regarding Hurricane Beryl's impact and the safety measures to take during such a disaster.
What areas were most affected by Hurricane Beryl?
The most affected areas include Jamaica, Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Venezuela, with significant damage also reported in the Cayman Islands and Cuba.
How can residents stay safe during a hurricane?
Residents should stay informed through reliable sources, follow evacuation orders, seek shelter in safe locations, and have emergency supplies ready, including water, food, and medical kits.
What are the expected weather conditions after Hurricane Beryl?
Following Hurricane Beryl, affected areas can expect heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding. Residents should remain cautious and follow updates from local authorities and weather services.