Hurricane Beryl, a powerful Category 4 storm, lashed Jamaica with heavy rains and ferocious winds, causing widespread damage and power outages across the island nation.
Beryl made its closest approach to Jamaica’s southern coast early Wednesday morning, unleashing sustained winds of up to 145 mph (230 km/h) and triggering storm surges along the southern shores. The storm has since begun to move northwest, pulling away from Jamaica.
Early reports indicate significant damage across the island. Downed trees and power lines have littered streets, leaving many areas without electricity. Buildings have sustained damage, with some roofs ripped off by the high winds.
The Jamaican government has deployed emergency response teams to assess the damage and begin relief efforts. Priority is being given to clearing blocked roads, restoring power, and ensuring the safety of residents. Shelters have been opened across the island to accommodate those displaced from their homes.
Read: Hurricane Beryl Churns Towards Texas, Potential Landfall This Weekend
While the worst of the wind gusts may have passed, the threat of heavy rainfall remains. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) warns of potential flash flooding, particularly in Jamaica’s interior regions. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow instructions from local authorities.
Beryl is now expected to weaken as it churns westward towards Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The storm’s exact path and intensity remain uncertain, and residents in potential impact zones are advised to closely monitor weather updates.
International aid agencies are closely monitoring the situation in Jamaica and stand ready to offer assistance as needed. The full extent of the damage remains unclear, but the island nation is likely to face a significant recovery effort in the coming days and weeks.
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