Hurricane Beryl Devastates Caribbean Islands

Hurricane Beryl, a powerful storm that made landfall Monday as a Category 4, has been wreaking havoc through the Caribbean, claiming the lives of at least four people, causing extensive damage to homes, and uprooting trees.

Impact on Carriacou and Petite Martinique

The hurricane struck Carriacou, a small island north of Grenada, on Monday morning, flattening the island in just half an hour. Neighboring Petite Martinique also faced severe destruction. Rescue teams departed Grenada on Tuesday to provide aid and assess the devastation in these islands.

Island Populations

Carriacou, known for its coral reefs and diving spots, and Petite Martinique, where most residents are involved in fishing or boat building, have a combined population of approximately 6,000 according to government figures.

Unusual Storm Season

Beryl intensified to a Category 5 storm and was moving westward towards Jamaica. Its development into a Category 4 storm on Sunday marked a rare occurrence in June. The storm’s rapid strengthening was attributed to above-average sea surface temperatures, posing a warning for the ongoing hurricane season.

Record-breaking Hurricane

Beryl became the first Atlantic storm to reach Category 5 strength so early in the season, setting a new record. The storm’s rapid intensification highlights the increased risks posed by storms forming quickly, giving less time for preparation and evacuation.

• Image: Satellite image showing Hurricane Beryl approaching Jamaica on Tuesday.
• Image: A boat washed ashore in St. Vincent on Monday.
• Image: Damage in Soufrière, St. Lucia, on Monday.
• Image: People moving a boat near Saint James, Barbados, to avoid damage.
• Image: Debris on the streets of Bay Garden Oistins, Barbados, post the hurricane.
• Image: Fishing vessels damaged after Hurricane Beryl at Bridgetown Fisheries in Barbados.
• Image: Grocery store lines in Kingston, Jamaica, on Monday.
• Image: Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, showing effects of the storm on Monday.
• Image: Airport in Piarco, Trinidad and Tobago, with cancellations due to the storm.
• Image: Strong winds and waves hitting Dover Beach in Christ Church, Barbados.