As Beryl intensifies into a Category 3 hurricane, Jamaica braces for potential impact as the storm is forecasted to make landfall on the southern coast on Wednesday afternoon. The National Hurricane Center warns that major hurricanes like Beryl can bring significant destruction and pose serious threats to affected areas.
While Jamaica has experienced tropical cyclones in the past, direct hits from hurricanes are relatively rare due to the island's size. Over the last four decades, only two hurricanes, Sandy in 2012 and Gilbert in 1988, have made landfall in Jamaica.
In 2012, Hurricane Sandy struck Jamaica as a Category 1 storm, causing notable damage. However, the most infamous storm to hit the island was Hurricane Gilbert in 1988. Gilbert made landfall with Category 4 strength, bringing sustained winds of 130 mph and resulting in catastrophic damage and loss of life.
Interestingly, the storm name 'Beryl' was also used in the 1988 Atlantic hurricane season, where it formed and made landfall in Louisiana as a tropical storm.
While direct hits are rare, Jamaica often faces the impacts of tropical cyclones passing near the island. In recent years, several named storms, including Laura, Nana, Delta, Elsa, Grace, Ida, and Lisa, have tracked close to Jamaica, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall to the region.
As Beryl approaches, authorities in Jamaica are taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety of residents and minimize potential damage from the impending hurricane. It is crucial for residents to stay informed, follow official guidance, and prepare for the impact of the approaching storm.
