BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – As Hurricane Beryl, the first named storm of the season, approaches the Caribbean islands, residents are bracing themselves for potentially devastating impacts. The major storm is gaining strength as it moves across the Atlantic Ocean toward islands like Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, and Martinique.

People in the region are taking precautions by boarding up their homes, lining up at gas stations for fuel, and stockpiling supplies and water in anticipation of the storm’s arrival. With forecasts predicting Hurricane Beryl to potentially become a Category 3 storm as it moves from the Caribbean into the Gulf of Mexico, there is growing concern over the potential for “hurricane-force” winds, a “life-threatening” storm surge, and heavy rainfall.

Barbados’ Prime Minister has urged residents to prioritize looking out for their friends, family, and neighbors once the hurricane hits, emphasizing the need for vigilance and precaution. Meanwhile, preparations are also underway in other islands like Dominica, Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada, where residents are being warned of the impending dangers posed by Hurricane Beryl.

The storm’s impending arrival has prompted actions such as boarding up buildings in Bridgetown, Barbados, and extending hours at supermarkets and gas stations in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Emergency shelters are set to open in various locations to accommodate those in need of refuge. Meteorologists across the region are urging residents to stay prepared, as hurricanes can have catastrophic consequences.

The current hurricane season, predicted to be a busy one, has raised concerns among experts. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a warning about the possibility of up to 25 named storms in 2024, with a significant number potentially developing into hurricanes. The potential intensity of Hurricane Beryl, if it reaches Category 3 status, would mark a rare and early occurrence in the Atlantic region.

With the memory of the devastating Tropical Storm Alberto in recent weeks, which claimed lives and caused significant damage, the Caribbean islands are on high alert. As residents and authorities alike take measures to prepare for the looming impact of Hurricane Beryl, the importance of readiness, vigilance, and community support remains paramount in facing the challenges that lie ahead.