Having unleashed its fury on Jamaica, Hurricane Beryl is now barreling towards the Cayman Islands and Mexico. Though downgraded to a Category 3 storm from its peak Category 4 intensity, Beryl still packs a powerful punch with 120-mph winds. The storm’s wrath on Jamaica has been significant, leaving a trail of devastation. Homes were destroyed, power lines were knocked out, and tragically, at least eight people lost their lives. As Jamaica begins assessing the damage and rebuilding, the Cayman Islands and Mexico brace themselves for the approaching hurricane.
Beryl slammed into Jamaica’s southern coast on Wednesday, bringing torrential rains, life-threatening storm surges, and ferocious winds. The island’s infrastructure took a beating, with widespread power outages reported. In anticipation of the storm’s impact, Jamaican authorities set up over 900 shelters and initiated evacuations in flood-prone areas. A curfew was imposed to ensure public safety during the height of the storm. While the official hurricane warning has been discontinued, heavy rainfall and flash flooding remain a severe concern to Jamaica.
Having battered Jamaica, Beryl set its sights on the Cayman Islands. On Thursday morning, the Cayman Islands awaited the storm’s arrival, now a Category 3 but still classified as a major hurricane. Residents hunkered down in anticipation of dangerous storm surges and damaging winds. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned of the potential for significant impacts across the Cayman Islands.
As Beryl continues its westward trek, Mexico – particularly the Yucatan Peninsula – is next in line. The storm is forecast to make landfall late Thursday or Friday, and although some weakening is predicted, Beryl is expected to maintain significant hurricane strength upon reaching Mexico. Mexican officials cautioned about the possibility of a “rare” double landfall, raising concerns about the potential cumulative effects of the storm.
The full scope of the damage caused by Beryl in Jamaica is still emerging. Rescue and recovery efforts are underway, but it will likely take time to determine the true extent of the devastation. Meanwhile, the Cayman Islands and Mexico wait with bated breath, preparing for the powerful storm’s arrival. Beryl serves as a stark reminder of the destructive potential of hurricanes and the importance of preparedness in the face of these natural disasters.
