Beryl devastates Carriacou, sets course for Jamaica

Carriacou has suffered extensive damage following the landfall of Hurricane Beryl on Monday, as reported by Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell. Mitchell described the situation as one of “destruction and devastation,” noting that Carriacou and Petite Martinique were particularly hard hit. The hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph, made landfall on Carriacou, marking it as the most powerful hurricane to pass through the Grenadines since records began in 1851. While there have been no immediate reports of casualties, Mitchell cautioned that the situation could evolve.

Meanwhile, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves confirmed one fatality and widespread destruction, including severe damage to homes, public buildings, and infrastructure, leaving parts of the islands without essential services like electricity and water.

Although there was significant damage to Barbados, the country has been given the “all clear” signal by officials following the passage of the hurricane through the island. Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley highlighted the substantial impact on fishing vessels, with an estimated 20 vessels possibly sunk. Minister of Home Affairs and Information Wilfred Abrahams stated that there were no reports of serious injuries.

As Hurricane Beryl continues its path, a hurricane warning remains in effect for Jamaica, with anticipated impacts on Wednesday. The storm is expected to weaken but maintain major hurricane intensity as it moves through the central Caribbean, passing near Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.

The storm’s trajectory beyond Thursday night is uncertain, with potential landfall along Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula or northern Belize. Damaging winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, and storm surge are expected in these areas, with the storm possibly tracking towards northeastern Mexico or the southern Texas coast over the weekend.