Hurricane Beryl Intensifies into Category 5 Storm Threatening Jamaica

Summary:
Hurricane Beryl intensified into a Category 5 storm on Monday, causing significant damage in the eastern Caribbean and posing a severe threat to Jamaica. With wind speeds of up to 160 mph (257 kph), Beryl has already downed power lines and flooded streets in various islands. Jamaica has issued a hurricane warning, bracing for potentially catastrophic impacts, including heavy rainfall and storm surges. Other affected regions, including the Dominican Republic and Haiti, have also issued warnings.
Beryl’s rapid intensification is attributed to climate change, which has increased sea surface temperatures, fueling more powerful hurricanes. Scientists predict an unusually active hurricane season this year due to these conditions. Preparations are underway across the Caribbean and parts of Mexico, with residents securing properties and stocking up on essentials. Experts warn that the saturated basins in regions like Oaxaca could exacerbate flooding from any additional rainfall.