Hurricane Beryl, the first hurricane of the 2024 Atlantic season, is rapidly intensifying towards the Caribbean Islands, expected to reach Category 4 status early Monday. Authorities issue warnings and advise residents to prepare for severe impacts.
Hurricane Beryl Strengthens, Threatens Caribbean Islands
Hurricane Beryl, the first hurricane of the 2024 Atlantic season, is rapidly intensifying and approaching Barbados and the Windward Islands. As of Sunday morning, Beryl is a Category 2 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 100 mph, located about 465 miles east-southeast of Barbados.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) predicts that Beryl will reach Category 4 status by late Sunday or early Monday as it nears the Windward Islands. This intensity is unusual for this early in the hurricane season, which typically sees its first hurricane in August. If Beryl reaches Category 4 before July 4, it would set a record for the earliest Category 4 hurricane in the Atlantic.
Hurricane warnings are currently in effect for Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadine Islands, and Grenada. Tropical storm warnings have been issued for Martinique and Tobago, while a tropical storm watch is in effect for Dominica. The NHC expects devastating wind damage, life-threatening storm surges of up to 9 feet, and heavy rainfall capable of causing localized flooding.
Authorities in the affected regions are urging residents to prepare for significant impacts, including power outages and hazardous marine conditions. Prime ministers and officials in Barbados, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, and Grenada have advised the public to complete preparations, review emergency plans, and stay informed on the storm’s progress.