As of 5:30 am on Sunday, June 30th, 2024, a Hurricane Warning is in effect for St Vincent and the Grenadines. This advisory highlights the approach of Hurricane Beryl, which poses a significant threat to the region.
The world is watching as St Vincent and the Grenadines braces for Hurricane Beryl. The local meteorological services have issued critical updates and guidelines to ensure the safety of residents and to minimize damage.
Flight Disruptions
Due to the approaching hurricane, several flights have been cancelled. Virgin Atlantic has cancelled flights VS197 and VS198 between Barbados and St Vincent for June 30th and July 1st. Caribbean Airlines has also cancelled flights:
BW200: Scheduled for June 30th from Barbados (BGI) to St Vincent (SVD).
BW201: Scheduled for June 30th from St Vincent (SVD) to Barbados (BGI).
In addition, InterCaribbean has cancelled flight JY764 arrival and departure, scheduled for June 30th.
The Argyle International Airport will be closed at 6 PM today.
Affected customers are being contacted for rebooking or refunds. Passengers are advised to check their flight status and follow guidelines on the respective airline websites .
Hurricane Beryl Details
At 5 am, Hurricane Beryl was located near latitude 10.7° North and longitude 53.1° West, approximately 570 miles (917 kilometers) east of SVG. Moving west at 21 mph (33 km/h), Beryl is expected to impact SVG by Monday morning. The hurricane boasts maximum sustained winds of 100 mph (160 km/h), with hurricane-force winds extending up to 15 miles (30 km) from the center, and tropical storm-force winds reaching out to 60 miles (95 km). The central pressure of the storm stands at 981 mb or 28.87 inches.
Expected Impacts
Wind: Maximum sustained winds are expected to be between 100-132 mph (160-212 km/h) from early Monday.
Rainfall: Significant rainfall accumulations of 4 to 6 inches (100 to 150 mm) are anticipated, prompting a flash-flood warning from 6 pm today.
Marine Conditions: Extremely hazardous marine conditions are forecast, with sea-swells potentially reaching up to 8.0m (26ft) near Beryl's center. These conditions are expected to cause life-threatening surf and rip currents, making it dangerous for small-craft operators and fishermen. A high-surf advisory and small-craft warning are in effect from 12 noon today
Another weather disturbance is currently located over the Eastern Atlantic, with a 70% chance of developing into a depression and possibly impacting the area by Wednesday.
Precautions
Residents are urged to complete all preparations to protect life and property immediately. Small-craft operators are advised to remain in port and secure all vessels. The public should avoid sea activities due to the dangerous conditions expected.
Stay informed and safe by following the updates from the St Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services on Facebook or by joining their email list at svgmet@gmail.com.
The weather forcast and advisory was prepared by: B. Jeffers at the MET office at the Argyle International Airport.
Summary
The islands of St Vincent and the Grenadines are experiencing a typical tropical summer with warm temperatures, high humidity, and frequent rainfall. As we brace for the impact of Hurricane Beryl, it's crucial to remain vigilant and prepared. The weather conditions underscore the importance of community resilience and readiness in the face of natural disasters.
For continuous updates, stay connected with official weather channels and heed all warnings and advisories.
Sources:
Comments