Yesterday, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) announced that Hurricane Beryl was located 565 kilometers east-southeast of Barbados with winds of 209 kilometers per hour. Beryl is expected to continue to be a major hurricane once it reaches the Windward Islands. The NHC warned residents in the areas to prepare and follow the orders of local government and emergency management officials.
The NHC forecast that Beryl could cause heavy rainfall and storm surges that could cause water levels to rise 2.74 metres above normal when it makes landfall. Hurricane-force winds and storm surges are expected, particularly in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. Hurricane Warnings are in effect across the Windward Islands.
Areas Affected by Hurricane Beryl
It is stated that the hurricane is moving in the Caribbean Sea and its effects may continue throughout the week. St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves emphasized that citizens should be prepared, saying, “We must be prepared for the worst.”
Local authorities warned citizens about power outages and possible damage, while Grenada Governor Cecile La Grenade announced that the country was in a state of emergency. It was stated that everything except hospitals and emergency centers would be closed.