Hurricane Beryl – 2024
Hurricane Beryl – 2024 (also see, Hurricane Beryl-2018) was a significant weather event for Dominica, marking the first hurricane of the 2024 Dominica Hurricane Season. Though Dominica only experienced Heavy rainfall and larger-than-usual sea swells, Beryl brought considerable challenges to the island, necessitating modest preparedness and response efforts.
About Hurricane Beryl – 2024
Hurricane Beryl – 2024 developed rapidly and intensified into a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds reaching up to 150 mph (240 km/h) as it approached the Caribbean. The storm landed in Dominica on July 2, 2024, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Hurricane Beryl landed on Dominica with wind speeds recorded at approximately 130 mph (210 km/h) in areas; like Galion, Soufriere and Scotts Head. The powerful waves caused significant damage to infrastructure and businesses, particularly in vulnerable coastal areas like the Dame Mary Eugenia Charles Blvd in Roseau. Portsmouth was among the hardest hit, experiencing widespread flooding, downed trees, and damage to buildings. However, the strong winds and heavy rainfall did not disrupt electricity and communication lines across the island.
Preparedness and Response
Dominica’s government and disaster management agencies undertook significant preparedness measures ahead of Hurricane Beryl’s arrival. The Dominica Meteorological Service provided regular updates and warnings, while the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of National Security and Legal Affairs and other governmental bodies coordinated efforts to ensure community readiness. Emergency shelters and evacuation plans were implemented for the most vulnerable areas.
In the aftermath of the hurricane, response efforts focused on clearing debris, restoring power, and providing immediate relief to affected communities. While the primary focus for this title was on Dominica, Hurricane Beryl-2024 also impacted nearby regions. Barbados and Carriacou Island in Grenada experienced the brutal force of the Hurricane in all its fury, with heavy rains and strong winds causing extensive damage.