Hurricane Beryl Devastates Caribbean: One Dead, Thousands Displaced

Hurricane Beryl, now a Category 5 storm, has caused severe destruction in the Caribbean, resulting in one death and displacing thousands. With maximum sustained winds of 150 mph, the storm continues to pose a significant threat as it moves westward toward Jamaica and Mexico.

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Aqsa Younas Rana
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Hurricane Beryl has devastated several Caribbean nations, causing one fatality and leaving thousands displaced.

Hurricane Beryl, upgraded to a Category 5 storm, has wreaked havoc across several Caribbean nations, resulting in at least one death and leaving thousands without power. The storm has severely impacted St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, and St. Lucia, with many residents now living in temporary shelters.

Images circulating on social media depict the extensive damage, showing homes with roofs blown off and residents sifting through rubble to salvage belongings. After Beryl made landfall on Carriacou Island in Grenada, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell reported that "in half an hour, Carriacou was flattened," highlighting the storm's ferocity.

Why This Matters: Ralph Gonsalves, the premier of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, confirmed one fatality and warned of potential additional casualties. Airports and businesses were shut down, and residents were urged to seek shelter as the hurricane approached. "We are not yet out of the woods," Mitchell cautioned in a news briefing on Monday.

Grenada has experienced several power outages, disrupting communications and access to government updates. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that Beryl's maximum sustained winds reached 150 mph (241 km/h) as it moved westward. A hurricane watch is in effect for Jamaica, indicating likely hurricane conditions by Wednesday.

"This is not a joke," warned Gonsalves, reminding residents of the devastation caused by past hurricanes. During a national address from his official residence, Gonsalves shared his own precautions: "The roof, certainly the old part of the roof, may not survive winds at 150 mph. I am making preparations to go downstairs."

The NHC has warned of potentially catastrophic wind damage, especially in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada, which are at the highest risk. Hurricane shelters opened on Sunday evening to provide refuge for those in the storm's path.

Beryl is expected to hit southeast Mexico by the end of the week, continuing its path of destruction. As recovery efforts begin, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of affected residents.

Key Takeaways:

  • Hurricane Beryl devastates Caribbean, causing widespread damage and fatalities.
  • Thousands displaced in St. Vincent, Grenada, and St. Lucia.
  • Maximum sustained winds reach 150 mph, threatening Jamaica.
  • Prime Minister Gonsalves takes personal precautions against the storm.
  • NHC warns of potentially catastrophic wind damage for affected regions.

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