Hurricane Beryl, a powerful Category 4 storm with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph, is currently battering Jamaica as it moves through the Caribbean Sea. As of 5:00 PM EDT, the hurricane’s center was located about 65 miles southwest of Kingston, Jamaica, moving west-northwest at 20 mph.

The National Hurricane Center reports hurricane conditions spreading across Jamaica, with Kingston experiencing sustained winds of 48 mph and gusts up to 81 mph. Beryl is expected to pass near or over the Cayman Islands tonight or early Thursday before approaching Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula late Thursday.

Hurricane warnings are in effect for Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and parts of Mexico’s Yucatan coast. Residents in these areas face threats from destructive winds, storm surge, and heavy rainfall. Storm surge could reach 6 to 9 feet in Jamaica and 4 to 6 feet along the Yucatan’s east coast.

Rainfall totals of 4 to 8 inches, with localized amounts up to 12 inches, are forecast for Jamaica, potentially causing life-threatening flash floods and mudslides. Similar rainfall amounts are expected in the Cayman Islands and Yucatan Peninsula.

While some weakening is anticipated, Beryl is likely to remain a major hurricane as it approaches the Cayman Islands and is forecast to still be a hurricane when it reaches the Yucatan Peninsula. Residents in the storm’s path should complete preparations immediately and follow local authorities’ guidance.