Hurricane Beryl: Intense Impact in the Caribbean

Hurricane Beryl, which formed early in the Atlantic season, made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane and wreaked havoc across parts of the southeastern Caribbean. Carriacou, Petite Martinique, and Union Island suffered extensive destruction, with winds exceeding 150 mph, damaging homes, infrastructure, and marinas. Other islands in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, such as Canouan and Mayreau, were also significantly impacted, leaving many residents in shelters and facing a slow recovery process. Jamaica saw only limited impact, though areas like Clarendon experienced storm-related disruptions.

Read also: How to Predict Cyclones: Key Signs and Global Hotspots for Storm Activity

Caribbean Islands Most Affected by Beryl

The islands most severely impacted by Hurricane Beryl include:

  • Carriacou (Grenada): Near-total infrastructure damage, including homes, power, and water systems.
  • Union Island (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines): Severe damage, with around 90% of structures affected.
  • Petite Martinique (Grenada): Extensive property and agricultural damage, requiring significant aid.
  • Mayreau and Canouan (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines): Serious disruptions to local communities and businesses.

Read also: Navigating the Aftermath: Hurricane Beryl’s Impact on Chartering in the Grenadines and What to Expect This Season

Caribbean Islands Unaffected by Beryl and Helene

Despite the intensity of these storms, several Caribbean islands were left relatively unscathed, making them suitable destinations for sailors. Islands with no significant storm impact include:

  • Barbados: Skirted by Beryl’s path, with no major disruptions reported.
  • Antigua and Barbuda: Continued operations with unaffected ports and infrastructure.
  • Saint Lucia: Avoided the worst of the storm and remains operational for tourism and sailing.
  • Martinique: Experienced only minor weather effects and is ready to welcome visitors.

Yachts Not Crossing the Atlantic This Season

Due to the extensive damage from Hurricane Beryl, some yachts have opted not to cross the Atlantic this season. This decision affects the number of vessels available in the Caribbean, as yacht owners and operators assess risks and availability in the aftermath of the storm.

Top Alternative Destinations if Your Caribbean Island Plans Were the Grenadines

If your chosen Caribbean destination has been affected by Beryl, several alternative locations remain excellent for sailing:

  • Caribbean: Explore Antigua & Barbuda, Guadeloupe and its islands, Saint Marteen-Saint Barth Area, The Bahamas
  • Polynesia: Offers pristine waters and diverse island landscapes far removed from the Atlantic hurricane zone.
  • Mauritius: Known for scenic coastlines and stable weather, it is ideal for year-round sailing.
  • Thailand and the Philippines (Asia): Asia provides rich cultural experiences and favorable sailing conditions, as it is outside the Atlantic hurricane season.

Conclusion

While Hurricanes Beryl and Helene caused significant disruption in parts of the Caribbean, many islands remain open and safe for sailing. Those whose planned destinations were impacted can explore several beautiful and safe alternatives across the Pacific and Indian Oceans.