Jamaica is used to such storms. This one though is expected to pack a wallop and a half. Or so they say.
Hurricane Beryl, currently a formidable Category 4 storm with winds reaching 140 mph, is poised to unleash its fury on Jamaica, located just 45 miles to its south. The storm’s proximity was confirmed in the latest advisory, which highlighted its imminent arrival. Already, Jamaica has experienced the initial effects of Beryl, with outer bands impacting the island and setting the stage for a severe weather event that promises devastating winds, significant storm surges, and potentially lethal wave action.
Hurricane Beryl Approaches Portland, Jamaica with High Waves. pic.twitter.com/xItlrXM9Ih
— T_CAS videos (@tecas2000) July 3, 2024
As Beryl continues its path, it is expected to deliver extensive rainfall across Jamaica—estimates suggest anywhere from 4 to 12 inches—which could trigger dangerous flash floods and mudslides. Coastal areas are bracing for storm surges that could elevate sea levels by 6 to 9 feet. The gravity of the situation has prompted Prime Minister Andrew Holness to declare a national disaster and implement a day-long curfew to ensure public safety.
The storm’s impact is not confined to Jamaica alone; neighboring regions are also on high alert. Haiti anticipates 4 to 6 inches of rain which may cause severe flooding and landslides. The Cayman Islands are also preparing for substantial rainfall and hazardous marine conditions. Beryl is forecast to maintain its hurricane status as it moves towards the Yucatan Peninsula, expected to hit on Friday, before progressing into the Gulf of Mexico.
Wow! Here’s a quick time-lapse from a Kingston, #Jamaica Live Cam today as Cat 4 #HurricaneBeryl approaches the island. 😮 #Hurricane #Beryl pic.twitter.com/iEIAfx8A8O
— BirdingPeepWx (@BirdingPeepWx) July 3, 2024
Earlier this week, Beryl had already demonstrated its destructive potential by hitting the southern Windward Islands, particularly Grenada’s Carriacou island, as a Category 4 hurricane. The storm left a trail of destruction, demolishing numerous buildings and claiming at least six lives. Remarkably, Beryl reached Category 5 intensity shortly after, setting a new record for the earliest formation of such a powerful hurricane in the season, driven by exceptionally warm ocean temperatures.
Texas and areas along the Gulf Coast of the United States are now closely monitoring the storm’s trajectory, which presents a range of possible outcomes. Meteorologists emphasize the unpredictability of Beryl’s path and intensity as it approaches the U.S. coastline. Meanwhile, preparations are underway, with warnings of potential storm surges and heavy rainfall extending from the eastern parts of Mexico to western Louisiana.
The southern coast of the #DominicanRepublic is experiencing dangerous waves due to #hurricaneberyl
Insane footage from #ManresaBeach in #SantoDomingo after #Beryl hits#Jamaica #Huracán #Carriacou #JamaicaBeryl #BerylHurricane pic.twitter.com/86hecXkU04
— know the Unknown (@imurpartha) July 3, 2024
Residents and tourists in regions like Cancun and Cozumel are under hurricane warnings, with local authorities issuing advisories about the anticipated storm surges and heavy rains. Back in Jamaica, communities are taking no chances; from stocking up on essentials to securing properties against the impending storm. The national response is a blend of resignation and resilience, as locals and visitors alike brace for what Beryl might bring. As the situation evolves, the focus remains on safety, preparation, and the hope that the measures in place will mitigate the storm’s impact as much as possible.
Major Points
- Hurricane Beryl, a Category 4 storm, is just 45 miles south of Jamaica, threatening the island with 140 mph winds and severe weather conditions.
- Jamaica faces up to 12 inches of rain, which could trigger life-threatening flash floods and mudslides, along with storm surges raising water levels by 6 to 9 feet.
- The storm has already impacted the southern Windward Islands, particularly Grenada, causing extensive damage and fatalities.
- Forecasters predict Beryl will maintain its hurricane status as it approaches the Yucatan Peninsula and enters the Gulf of Mexico.
- Precautions are in place across Jamaica and neighboring areas, with officials declaring disaster statuses, imposing curfews, and issuing evacuation orders.
RM Tomi – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
