Hurricane Beryl, a powerful Category 5 storm, wreaks havoc in the Caribbean, causing airport closures, fatalities, and widespread destruction. The UK Foreign Office issues travel warnings as local authorities brace for the impact of the storm on multiple islands.
Hurricane Beryl Ravages Caribbean, Causing Airport Closures and Six Fatalities
Hurricane Beryl, currently a Category 5 storm, is advancing towards the Caribbean, prompting the UK Foreign Office to issue a severe travel warning stating that all airports in the region will be closed. As of July 3, 2024, Beryl has already caused six fatalities and widespread destruction across southeastern Caribbean islands.
Local authorities have issued hurricane warnings for Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, with the storm expected to land in Jamaica on the morning of July 3. The hurricane’s path also poses a threat to Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac, with significant life-threatening winds and storm surges projected.
Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell described the situation on the islands of Carriacou and Petit Martinique as “grim,” with major power outages and infrastructure damage. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St Vincent and the Grenadines reported massive destruction, with 90% of homes on Union Island obliterated.
Due to the hurricane, multiple cruise lines have altered itineraries to ensure passenger safety. The US National Hurricane Center and local officials strongly advise evacuation from flood-prone areas.
