Hurricane Beryl, the first hurricane of the 2024 Atlantic season, is rapidly intensifying as it heads towards Barbados and the Windward Islands. The storm is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane within the next 24 hours.
Hurricane Beryl is expected to intensify into a dangerous major hurricane as it churns towards Barbados and the Windward Islands, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned on Tuesday.
The storm, which formed over the central Atlantic Ocean on Monday, is currently a Category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 100 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour). However, the NHC predicts that Beryl will rapidly strengthen over the next 24 hours and could reach Category 4 status by Wednesday.
Hurricane Beryl Threatens Barbados and Windward Islands
On its current track, Beryl is expected to pass near or over Barbados and the Windward Islands on Wednesday night or Thursday morning. The storm is then forecast to continue westward towards the Lesser Antilles and the northern coast of South America.
The NHC has issued a hurricane watch for Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada. A tropical storm watch is in effect for the islands of Dominica and Martinique.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to take precautions and monitor the storm's progress. The NHC recommends that people secure loose objects, stock up on food and water, and make plans to evacuate if necessary.
Beryl is the first hurricane of the 2024 Atlantic season, which typically runs from June 1st to November 30th. The storm's rapid intensification is a reminder that even early-season hurricanes can pose a significant threat to life and property.
The NHC will continue to monitor Beryl's progress and provide updates as they become available. Residents in the affected areas should stay informed and follow the advice of local officials.
