TULUM, México – Hurricane Beryl, currently a Category 4 hurricane, is making headlines as it barrels through the Caribbean with sustained winds of 140 mph and higher gusts, moving west-northwest at about 18 mph. As of July 3, 2024, Beryl’s central pressure is 959 mb, indicating a highly intense storm.
Beryl originated in the Atlantic Ocean’s Main Development Region (MDR) on June 28, 2024. Favorable conditions such as warm sea surface temperatures, low wind shear, and ample moisture allowed it to rapidly intensify from a tropical storm to a Category 5 hurricane within a short period, setting a record as the earliest Category 5 hurricane in the Atlantic. Meteorologists noted the storm’s rapid intensification as it reached peak winds of 165 mph with a central pressure of 935 mb on July 2 before slightly weakening to a still formidable Category 4.
Beryl’s eye is positioned near 17.3°N, 76.9°W, moving west-northwest at 18 mph. The hurricane has brought severe conditions to Jamaica, including hurricane-force winds, dangerous storm surges, and torrential rainfall, leading to flash flooding and mudslides. These conditions are expected to continue as Beryl approaches the Cayman Islands tonight.
Forecast models suggest Beryl will continue on a west-northwest track, making landfall on the Yucatán Peninsula, likely late Thursday night or early Friday morning. Upon landfall, Beryl is expected to weaken due to interaction with land but will still pose a significant threat to the region with strong winds and heavy rains.
Impact on Tulum and Quintana Roo
For Tulum and the broader coast of Quintana Roo, the following impacts are anticipated:
- – Damaging Winds: Sustained winds of up to 100 mph, with higher gusts, capable of causing extensive damage to structures, uprooting trees, and downing power lines.
- – Storm Surge: A significant storm surge could lead to coastal flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
- – Heavy Rainfall: Torrential downpours may result in flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in mountainous and hilly regions.
Residents and visitors should prepare for these conditions and stay updated with local weather advisories.
Detailed Precautionary Measures
To ensure safety and minimize damage, the following detailed precautions are recommended:
- Home Preparation:
- Reinforce windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood.
- Secure outdoor items such as furniture, decorations, and trash bins to prevent them from becoming airborne debris.
- Trim trees and remove any dead or weak branches that could pose a hazard.
- Supply Stockpiling:
- Ensure an adequate supply of non-perishable food and water for at least a week.
- Gather essential medications, baby supplies, and pet food.
- Keep a battery-operated radio to receive emergency updates.
- Emergency Kit:
- Include flashlights, extra batteries, a first aid kit, and necessary personal hygiene items.
- Collect important documents (ID, insurance papers, bank information) in a waterproof container.
- Prepare cash, as ATMs may not function during power outages.
- Evacuation Planning:
- Know your evacuation routes and have multiple destinations planned.
- Fill your car’s gas tank and have an emergency car kit ready.
- If you have pets, ensure they are part of your evacuation plan with carriers and necessary supplies.
- Communication Plan:
- Designate a family meeting spot and establish a communication plan.
- Keep your phone charged and have backup chargers available.
- Vehicle Protection:
- Park vehicles in a garage or another secure location.
- Avoid parking under trees or power lines.
- Backup Power:
- Consider a generator for backup power, ensuring it is installed and used safely.
- Keep generators outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Stay Informed:
- Continuously monitor local news and weather reports.
- Follow directives from local authorities regarding evacuations and safety measures.
- Pet Safety:
- Ensure pets have identification tags and microchips.
- Prepare a pet emergency kit containing food, water, medications, and comfort.
Contact Information for Emergencies
In case of emergencies, residents and visitors in Tulum should contact the following authorities:
- Municipal Authorities of Tulum: +52 984 871 2050
- Red Cross Tulum: +52 984 871 2326
- Fire Department (Bomberos) Tulum: +52 984 871 2270
- Local Police: +52 984 871 2059
- Civil Protection: +52 984 871 2050
- Hospital Tulum: +52 984 871 2140
Ensure you have these numbers saved and accessible during the hurricane. Follow the National Hurricane Center, local weather advisories, and emergency management agencies for continuous updates.
Hurricane Beryl poses a severe threat to the Caribbean and the Yucatán Peninsula. Residents in Tulum and surrounding areas must take immediate action to prepare for its impact. Staying informed and following the recommended safety measures will be crucial in minimizing risks and ensuring the safety of individuals and property.
Please follow the National Hurricane Center, local weather advisories, and emergency management agencies for continuous updates.
