Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is preparing for the impending arrival of Hurricane Beryl, now a Category 2 storm, set to make landfall with 110mph winds and hazardous storm surge on early Friday morning. According to the National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan, the region faces life-threatening winds, up to five feet of storm surge, and potentially ten inches of rainfall.
After impacting the Yucatan Peninsula, Hurricane Beryl is forecasted to bring dangerous rip currents to the Gulf Coast over the weekend before possibly reaching southern Texas on Monday. The National Weather Service advises residents, especially in South Texas, to stay updated on the evolving forecast.
Reports from Reuters indicate that Hurricane Beryl has caused the deaths of at least ten people, with fatalities in Grenada and Jamaica due to the storm’s devastating impact, including downed trees. Jamaica experienced significant damage, with power outages affecting 400,000 residents, while Grenada suffered widespread destruction to buildings.
Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada described the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl as “unimaginable,” noting that 98 percent of buildings were damaged or destroyed. The storm’s path has left a trail of destruction, with ongoing concerns about rainfall and potential flash flooding affecting the region.
Amid the preparations for Hurricane Beryl’s impact, Mexican authorities took proactive measures to evacuate sea turtle eggs from beaches in anticipation of the storm. Experts relocated eggs to safer locations or created protective barriers with sandbags to ensure their safety, recognizing the urgency of the situation.
As Hurricane Beryl continues its path, concerns grow for Texas, with meteorologists warning of potential significant rainfall for Brownsville and surrounding areas. There is a possibility of the storm stalling along the Gulf Coast, leading to prolonged storm conditions and increased flooding risks. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and monitor updates closely.
In response to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl, the United Nations has pledged $4 million to support relief efforts in affected areas, including Jamaica, Grenada, and St Vincent and the Grenadines. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for international solidarity in assisting Caribbean countries affected by the storm’s impact.