Category 5 hurricanes are somewhat of an anomaly relatively speaking in any hurricane season. However, a Category 5 hurricane on before the 4th of July is unprecedented. University of Miami hurricane expert Brian McNoldy, “#Beryl holds the new record for earliest Category 5 hurricane by a huge 15-day margin now.” This storm continues to break records, ravage the Caribbean region, and stun scientists like me. Here’s what we can expect from the hurricane as it continues to move westward.
Here’s the latest information from the National Hurricane Center. Their Tuesday morning discussion warns, “Beryl is forecast to remain a powerful hurricane as it moves across the Caribbean Sea later this week. A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Jamaica, where hurricane conditions are expected on Wednesday.” Tropical Storm Warning are also up for the southern coast of Hispaniola, and the Cayman Islands are under a Hurricane Watch.
Hurricane Beryl Strengthens To Category 5 And Moves Towards Jamaica After Pummeling Other Caribbean Islands—PhotosNHC points out that Beryl is an “impressive category 5 hurricane” and has one of the most textbook eyes, outflow structure, and banding features that I have seen in any hurricane.
That last statement is why I am so worried about Jamaica. It could take a direct hit or be within the “dirty” side of the eyewall where the strongest winds and storm surge are located. Many people vacation in Jamaica at this time of year and may not be familiar with this type of strong hurricane. To be clear, even experienced residents are not. This is an extreme event for which there is no reference point this early in July. Period.