1. What was the initial strength of Hurricane Beryl?
Hurricane Beryl first formed as a tropical depression on June 28, 2024, with winds of 35 mph. Within the first 24 hours, the storm rapidly intensified into a hurricane with winds of 75 mph.
2. How did Hurricane Beryl intensify so quickly?
Beryl underwent rapid intensification, becoming a Category 4 hurricane within 24 hours of its initial formation. This rapid intensification was fueled by exceptionally warm ocean temperatures and low wind shear.
3. What was the highest category Beryl reached?
At its peak, Hurricane Beryl reached Category 5 status with sustained winds of 165 mph, making it the earliest Category 5 hurricane observed in the Atlantic on record.
4. Where did Beryl make landfall first?
Beryl made landfall on Carriacou Island as a strong Category 4 hurricane on July 1, 2024, bringing catastrophic winds and life-threatening storm surge to the southern Windward Islands.
5. How many fatalities were reported in the Caribbean?
At least three fatalities were reported in Jamaica due to Beryl, and a total of eleven casualties were documented across various regions including Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Venezuela, and Jamaica.
6. What was the impact on Texas when Beryl made landfall?
When Beryl made landfall in Texas as a Category 1 hurricane, it brought dangerous storm surge and the risk of flash flooding. The storm's outer edges brought rain and escalating winds to the coast, prompting residents to brace for its impact.
7. How many people lost power due to Beryl?
Widespread power outages occurred in Texas, with over 2.7 million homes reported without power at some point. The strong winds and flooding from Beryl resulted in several fatalities in the U.S.
8. What were the economic impacts of Hurricane Beryl?
The storm caused significant economic impacts, including the closure of major ports in Texas. The closure of ports like Christi, Galveston, Freeport, and Texas City indicates a potential temporary cessation of exports.
9. What relief efforts were initiated after the storm?
Relief efforts were initiated, with the United Nations releasing $4 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund to support emergency relief work in the Caribbean. Additionally, organizations like JN Money donated $1 million to New Forest Primary for post-hurricane restoration.
