Hurricane Beryl Intensifies to Category 5, Threatens Jamaica and Cayman Islands

Hurricane Beryl has strengthened to a Category 5 storm, with maximum sustained winds of 165 mph, as it barrels through the Caribbean Sea. As of 8:00 AM AST, the hurricane was located about 300 miles southeast of Isla Beata, Dominican Republic, and 625 miles east-southeast of Kingston, Jamaica.

The National Hurricane Center has issued a Hurricane Warning for Jamaica, where hurricane conditions are expected to reach the coast on Wednesday. Hurricane Watches are in effect for Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac.

Beryl is moving west-northwest at 22 mph and is forecast to maintain this rapid pace for the next couple of days before turning westward on Thursday. The storm is expected to pass near Jamaica on Wednesday and the Cayman Islands on Thursday.

While some weakening is anticipated, Beryl is likely to remain a major hurricane as it approaches Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Residents in these areas should prepare for potentially life-threatening conditions, including:

1. Strong winds: Hurricane-force winds extend up to 40 miles from the center, with tropical-storm-force winds reaching 125 miles outward.
2. Storm surge: Water levels could rise 4 to 6 feet above normal tide levels in Jamaica and 1 to 3 feet in the Cayman Islands and along the southern coast of Hispaniola.
3. Heavy rainfall: Jamaica could see 4 to 8 inches of rain, with localized amounts up to 12 inches, potentially causing flash flooding.
4. Dangerous surf: Large swells are expected to create life-threatening surf and rip current conditions across the affected areas.

Residents in the warning areas are urged to complete preparations quickly and follow guidance from local authorities. The next advisory will be issued at 11:00 AM AST.