Hurricane Beryl July 3, 2024 Brief
As Hurricane Beryl continues to strengthen, residents of Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and the Yucatan Peninsula are bracing for impact. According to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center, the center of Hurricane Beryl is currently located near latitude 17.5 North, longitude 77.6 West, and is moving west-northwest at a speed of 20 mph (31 km/h).
Note: At the time this article was published on July 3, 2024, Hurricane Beryl posed no immediate threat to Southwest Louisiana though residents are advised to stay informed about Beryl’s progress.
Hurricane Beryl Wind Speed and Conditions
With maximum sustained winds of 140 mph (220 km/h) and higher gusts, Beryl has been classified as a Category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. While some weakening is expected over the next day or two, Beryl is forecast to remain a major hurricane as it passes near the Cayman Islands. Further weakening is expected thereafter, but the storm is still expected to make landfall on the Yucatan Peninsula as a hurricane.
Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 45 miles (75 km) from the center, while tropical-storm-force winds reach up to 185 miles (295 km) from the center. Kingston, Jamaica, has already reported sustained winds of 48 mph (78 km/h) and a wind gust of 81 mph (130 km/h).
The estimated minimum central pressure is 959 mb (28.32 inches), indicating a powerful storm. Residents in the affected areas are advised to take necessary precautions and follow evacuation orders if issued.
Hurricane Beryl Forecast
In addition to Hurricane Beryl, a tropical wave located near the Windward Islands is being monitored for potential development. Although development is expected to be slow, the system is forecast to bring gusty winds and locally heavy rainfall to portions of the Lesser Antilles through this evening. The chances of formation within the next 48 hours are low, at 10 percent, and 20 percent within the next seven days.
As Hurricane Beryl continues on its projected path, residents and authorities are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.