Hurricane Beryl is making its way towards Jamaica after causing devastation across the southeastern Caribbean, resulting in at least six deaths and the flattening of homes on multiple islands. The storm, which reached Category 5 and is considered the earliest on record to do so, is expected to make landfall in Jamaica as a dangerous Category 4 hurricane. Officials have urged residents to prepare by gathering supplies, securing their homes, and being in a safe place by nightfall. The National Hurricane Center warns of life-threatening winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges in Jamaica.
The storm has already caused significant damage in Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines, with reports of deaths and extensive destruction of homes. The Prime Minister of Grenada described the situation as grim, with entire communities cut off and in need of assistance. St Vincent and the Grenadines also experienced massive destruction, with homes on Union Island, Myreau, and Canouan being significantly impacted.
Scientists attribute the rapid strengthening of Hurricane Beryl to human-caused climate change, with rising sea temperatures leading to more intense hurricanes. The storm intensified from Category 1 to Category 4 in record time, highlighting the effects of global warming. The Atlantic hurricane season is predicted to be above average, with up to 25 named storms expected. As the storm approaches Jamaica, residents are urged to take all necessary precautions and stay safe during this dangerous weather event.
Source
Photo credit www.aljazeera.com