Satellites are keeping a close eye on Hurricane Beryl as it wreaks havoc on the Caribbean island of Carriacou in Grenada. The storm hit the island on Monday morning as a dangerous Category 4 hurricane. NOAA’s GOES-East satellite has been providing real-time views of Beryl as it moves through the Atlantic ocean. The satellite footage shows the storm impacting the Windward Islands in the Caribbean Sea, including Grenada, St. Vincent, and Martinique.
Hurricane hunters from the U.S. Air Force Reserve have reported extreme turbulence and frequent lightning inside Beryl as they flew through the storm over the weekend. This data is crucial for the National Hurricane Center’s weather forecasting efforts. Brian McNoldy, a tropical meteorology researcher at the University of Miami, mentioned that the warm ocean waters are at record-high temperatures, which are fueling the strength of Hurricane Beryl.
Beryl quickly intensified into a Category 4 hurricane due to the warm ocean waters, setting a record as the strongest hurricane to reach this category so early in the year. The hurricane specialist, Michael Lowry, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, calling Beryl an extremely dangerous and rare hurricane for this time of year. The storm has caused significant damage in Carriacou, with forecasters warning of heavy rainfall and destructive winds.
Residents in the affected areas have been advised to stay indoors and seek shelter in safe places. Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell urged residents to remain indoors and stay in bathrooms if necessary. Thousands of people have sought refuge in emergency shelters across the island. The International Space Station astronauts also observed Hurricane Beryl from above, giving them a unique perspective on the storm.
Hurricane warnings are still in effect for St. Vincent, the Grenadine Islands, Barbados, and Jamaica, with significant rainfall and strong winds expected in these areas. The National Hurricane Center has emphasized that Beryl will remain a significant hurricane as it moves through the Caribbean region. It is important for residents to follow safety guidelines and stay informed about the storm’s progress.
The situation in Carriacou and other affected areas remains critical, and it is essential for residents to prioritize their safety and follow the instructions of emergency officials. The impact of Hurricane Beryl serves as a reminder of the destructive power of these natural disasters and the importance of preparedness and response efforts in the face of such events. Stay safe and stay informed during this challenging time.
