Transcript
Welcome to this in-depth look at Hurricane Beryl, a powerful storm currently affecting the Caribbean region.
Hurricane Beryl has already caused significant damage and loss of life in the southeastern Caribbean, particularly in Grenada and northern Venezuela.
The storm is expected to continue its destructive path, impacting Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and eventually Mexico and the U.S. Gulf Coast.
Let's take a closer look at the current status and path of Hurricane Beryl.
As of July 3rd, 2024, Hurricane Beryl is positioned 185 miles east of Kingston, Jamaica, and 485 miles east of the Cayman Islands, moving at a speed of 20 mph.
Beryl is currently a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of 145 mph.
The storm is expected to pass near Jamaica, then head towards the Cayman Islands by Wednesday night or early Thursday, and eventually make landfall in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula by early Friday.
Now, let's discuss the potential impacts and preparations for Hurricane Beryl.
A hurricane warning is in effect for Jamaica, with life-threatening winds, storm surge, and heavy rainfall expected.
Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to prepare for potential evacuation.
A hurricane warning is also in effect for the Cayman Islands, with a storm surge expected to raise water levels by 2 to 4 feet.
The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and strong winds to Mexico and the U.S. Gulf Coast, with the possibility of regaining strength in the Gulf of Mexico.
Hurricane Beryl has set some notable records and exhibits some interesting characteristics.
Beryl set a record as the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record, with peak winds reaching 165 mph.
Beryl rapidly intensified from a tropical storm to a major hurricane within a remarkably short span, fueled by warmer-than-average ocean temperatures and conducive wind conditions.
Let's hear from some experts and officials about Hurricane Beryl.
"Jamaica is directly in Beryl's path, and residents should seek secure shelter until the storm passes." Dr. Michael Brennan, 2024.
"Residents residing in low-lying areas, flood-prone regions, or near riverbanks should promptly evacuate to shelters or safer locations." Prime Minister Andrew Holness, 2024.
Let's take a look at the timeline of Hurricane Beryl's development and movement.
Monday, July 3rd: Beryl strengthened to a Category 5 hurricane with peak winds of 165 mph.
Tuesday, July 3rd: Beryl began to lose strength, downgrading to a Category 4 hurricane.
Wednesday, July 3rd: Beryl is expected to pass near Jamaica, bringing hurricane conditions and life-threatening storm surge.
Thursday, July 4th: Beryl is expected to pass near the Cayman Islands, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Early Friday, July 5th: Beryl is expected to make landfall in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.
Let's look at some key statistics related to Hurricane Beryl.
At least six people have been killed in the southeastern Caribbean, with reports of casualties in Grenada's Carriacou Island and northern Venezuela.
Beryl's peak winds reached 165 mph, making it the strongest Category 5 hurricane on record.
Isolated areas in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands can expect rainfall of up to 12 inches, with 4 to 6 inches expected in other areas.
Water levels are expected to rise by 6 to 9 feet above normal in Jamaica and 2 to 4 feet in the Cayman Islands.