A comprehensive picture emerged Wednesday of the extensive damage inflicted by Hurricane Beryl on the Windward Islands, revealing widespread destruction and at least seven deaths. The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency reported that over 90% of homes and buildings on at least three islands have been either destroyed or severely damaged. These islands are part of the Grenadine Islands, where Beryl made its powerful entry into the Caribbean between St. Vincent and Grenada.

Widespread Destruction Across the Grenadine Islands

Hurricane Beryl, with sustained winds of 150 mph and higher gusts, made landfall on Carriacou on Monday, causing massive destruction. The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency, which coordinates disaster response across 19 Caribbean states, is actively working on relief efforts for Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Despite ongoing recovery efforts, a tropical wave brought additional rain and gusty winds to the already suffering residents on Wednesday. The eye of Beryl, still a formidable Category 4 storm, passed Jamaica’s coast on Wednesday afternoon and is expected to approach the Cayman Islands by Thursday morning, before making landfall in the Yucatan on Friday morning.

Grenada’s Prime Minister Describes Total Destruction

Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell, after surveying the damage from a helicopter provided by the government of St. Lucia, described the devastation as “complete destruction.” He detailed the severe impacts on the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, likening the scene to Armageddon. Mitchell noted the destruction of buildings, agriculture, and the natural environment, with no vegetation left on Carriacou, significant damage to boats and marinas, and the near-total collapse of the electrical grid and communication systems.

Despite the overwhelming devastation, Mitchell was encouraged by the outpouring of support from volunteers arriving from less affected areas to deliver relief supplies. This display of solidarity and resilience highlights the “true Grenadian spirit.”

Preliminary Damage Assessments

Elizabeth Riley, executive director of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency, provided a preliminary assessment of the damage:

• Carriacou, Grenada: The entire population of 6,081 has been affected, with extensive damage to most homes and buildings. Communications have been severely compromised.
• Petite Martinique, Grenada: Approximately 80% of houses and buildings have been extensively damaged or destroyed, affecting 900 residents.
• Canouan, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: The entire population of 12,600 has been impacted, with an estimated 90% of houses damaged or destroyed. The police station in Charlestown lost its roof.
• Union Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: The full population of 3,000 experienced extensive damage, with 98% of buildings severely affected, including the airport control tower and hospital roof.
• Mayreau, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: The entire population of 300 has been affected, with 90% of housing stock damaged or destroyed.
• Palm Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: The resort and desalination plant suffered significant damage.
• Barbados: Over 40 homes were damaged, with significant impacts on the fishing sector and coastal infrastructure.
• St. Lucia: Significant damage was reported on the southern end of the island.
• Trinidad and Tobago: Power outages and water disruptions occurred in Tobago, with roadway blockages on both islands.
• Bequia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: About 10% of homes and buildings suffered roof damage, but the airport and runway remain usable.
• Dominica: Minimal damages reported.

Grenada’s Prime Minister noted that the northernmost parish, Saint Patrick, and the parishes of Saint Andrew, Saint Mark, and Saint John suffered significant damage. Agriculture has been severely affected, and many residents have lost their roofs or entire homes. The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency continues to track Beryl’s progress and coordinate relief efforts, urging those with information on the incident to contact the Crimes Against Persons Unit at 770-499-3945.