Hurricane Beryl strengthened to Category 5 status late Monday. It now boasts sustained winds of 165 mph with higher gusts.
Beryl became the earliest Category 5 hurricane in the Atlantic basin. It is only the second Category 5 hurricane to occur in July.
Devastating Landfall on Carriacou Island, Grenada
Beryl made landfall on Carriacou Island with 150 mph winds. The storm caused at least one death in the region.
It devastated communities across the Grenadines and St. Vincent. Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell reported widespread destruction in Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
Storm Trajectory Threatens Jamaica and Hispaniola
As of 8 a.m. local time, Beryl was 300 miles southeast of the Dominican Republic. It moved west-northwest at 22 mph.
Forecasters expect life-threatening winds and storm surge in Jamaica by Wednesday. The National Hurricane Center predicts 4 to 8 inches of rain, with up to 12 inches in isolated locations on Jamaica.
Caribbean Nations Issue Hurricane Warnings
Jamaica’s government has issued a hurricane warning for the country. Tropical storm warnings are in effect for parts of Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
The National Hurricane Center expects tropical storm conditions along Hispaniola’s south coast by late Tuesday. Storm surge in Jamaica could reach 3 to 5 feet above normal tide levels.
Uncertain Impact on U.S. Gulf Coast
AccuWeather experts believe the U.S. will likely avoid direct impacts from Beryl. However, they caution residents not to let their guard down.
The storm’s path after reaching the Gulf of Mexico remains unclear. Forecasters stress the importance of continued monitoring.
Low Confidence in Long-Term Forecast Cone
The National Hurricane Center reports low confidence in Beryl’s long-term trajectory. Computer models show a wide spread of potential outcomes.
Forecasters remain uncertain about Beryl’s structure and intensity as it approaches the Yucatan. Gulf of Mexico conditions appear unfavorable for restrengthening if Beryl re-emerges there.
Windward Islands Report Extensive Storm Damage
Officials reported devastating damage across the southern Windward Islands. St. Vincent and the Grenadines confirmed at least one death.
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves stated hundreds of homes and buildings were destroyed or damaged. Fierce winds knocked out power across several communities.
Jamaica Prepares for Hurricane Beryl’s Approach
Despite the approaching hurricane, some Jamaicans remain calm. Waiter Welton Anderson told Reuters that panic typically sets in at the last minute.
Jamaica has experience dealing with hurricanes. Residents and authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
Record-Breaking 2024 Hurricane Season Forecast
NOAA predicts an extraordinary 2024 hurricane season. Forecasters project up to 25 named storms, the highest preseason outlook ever.
NOAA director Rick Spinrad reports an 85% chance of an above-average year. The Atlantic hurricane season is shaping up to be exceptionally active.
Beryl’s Rapid Intensification Surprises Forecasters
Beryl evolved from a tropical depression to a major hurricane in about 48 hours. Warmer-than-normal Atlantic Ocean temperatures fueled its growth.
Light winds allowed Beryl to build a strong inner core. This rapid intensification challenges typical hurricane development patterns.
