Hurricane Beryl Leaves Trail of Destruction in Caribbean, Seven Deaths Reported

Hurricane Beryl, a powerful Category 4 storm, wreaked havoc in the south-east Caribbean, causing significant damage and claiming at least seven lives. Jamaica, Grenada, and other islands face widespread destruction, with evacuation orders and states of emergency declared. International warnings issued as storm approaches Mexico.

Hurricane Beryl, a formidable Category 4 storm, has caused significant destruction and fatalities in the south-east Caribbean, with at least seven reported deaths. The hurricane's eyewall brushed Jamaica's south coast on July 3, 2024, bringing fierce winds and heavy rains, leading to widespread power outages and flooding.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared a state of emergency and announced the island as a disaster zone for the next seven days. Approximately 500 people were placed in shelters, and an evacuation order was issued for communities prone to flooding and landslides. Prime Minister Holness urged residents to move to safer, higher areas.

Grenada's Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell highlighted "extensive damage" on Carriacou, while St. Vincent and the Grenadines' officials reported severe impacts on Mayreau and Union Island. The US National Hurricane Centre warned Jamaica of storm surges up to 2.7 meters and heavy rainfall, raising concerns about flash floods and mudslides.

Mexico is also preparing for Beryl, with expected landfall on the Yucatan Peninsula and later along the Gulf coast states of Veracruz or Tamaulipas. Efforts are underway to protect local wildlife and residents as the storm advances.

International advisories, including one from the UK Foreign Office, have warned travellers to monitor local weather updates and follow directives from authorities.