UN Appeals for Aid After Hurricane Beryl

Hurricane Beryl’s Devastation

The United Nations has called for international solidarity with Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and other Caribbean islands severely impacted by Hurricane Beryl. As a Category 5 storm, Hurricane Beryl has claimed at least six lives and caused extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and power and communication networks.

***_{Satellite image of Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean, a category 5 storm with 165-mph winds as of 8:00 AM on July 2, 2024.}***

UN Emergency Response

UN Spokesperson Stephané Dujarric announced that additional UN emergency teams would be deployed. These teams will support the seven agencies in Grenada and nine in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Dujarric highlighted the logistical challenges due to the islands’ dispersal, damaged infrastructure, and limited accessibility.

Importance of International Solidarity

Dujarric emphasized the importance of international solidarity. He noted that these small island states are once again bearing the brunt of natural disasters. The Secretary-General is strongly appealing for global support.

Concerns for Haiti

The UN also expressed concern for Haiti. The country faces a dire situation exacerbated by the hurricane and ongoing security issues. The UN is prepositioning aid and coordinating with Haitian authorities to provide early warnings and anticipatory measures.

Rapid Intensification of Hurricane Beryl

The UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO) raised alarms about Hurricane Beryl’s rapid intensification. The storm intensified from a tropical depression to a Category 3 in 42 hours and a Category 4 in 48 hours. This unprecedented rate for June aligns with the trend of very rapid intensification, similar to Hurricane Otis, which hit Acapulco last October.

Record-High Sea Surface Temperatures

The WMO warned that record-high sea surface temperatures set the stage for an especially active and dangerous hurricane season in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Central America. WMO Deputy Secretary-General Ko Barrett highlighted the potential socio-economic impact. She cited Hurricane Maria’s 2017 devastation of Dominica, which cost 800% of its GDP.

Call to Action

In summary, the UN is urgently calling for international aid. The support is needed to help the Caribbean islands devastated by Hurricane Beryl. The emphasis is on solidarity and preparedness for an intense hurricane season ahead.

_{Re-reported from the artcle originally published in UN News.}