Tropical Storm Beryl is expected to strengthen back into a hurricane as it heads towards Texas, after causing devastation and at least 11 deaths across the Caribbean. The storm rapidly grew to a Category 4 hurricane before briefly reaching Category 5 intensity, making it the most powerful storm ever recorded in the Atlantic so early in the hurricane season. Experts believe that human-caused climate change may have fueled the storm’s intensity.
Beryl is forecasted to make landfall in Texas as a Category 1 hurricane, bringing the potential for storm surges, flash flooding, and dangerous rip currents. The storm had already caused property damage and power outages in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, prompting evacuations of hundreds of tourists and deployment of troops to provide aid.
The Caribbean islands of Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and northern Venezuela were all affected by Beryl, with a total of 11 deaths reported. The islands experienced widespread destruction, prompting appeals for help from international organizations and the UN.
The warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico are expected to further fuel Beryl’s strength, with the storm potentially becoming stronger if it remains over water longer than expected. As the storm approaches the Texas coast, authorities are warning residents to prepare for hazardous conditions and to heed evacuation orders if necessary.
The storm’s path and potential impacts on Texas are being closely monitored by the National Hurricane Center, with updates being provided to help residents in the affected areas prepare for the approaching hurricane.
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