By Deanzer Roberts

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves addressed the nation yesterday Tuesday July 2^nd 2024,  following the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl, which wreaked havoc on the island. In an emotionally charged press conference, he detailed the immense destruction and suffering inflicted upon the populace.

“Hurricane Beryl, a dangerous and devastating hurricane, has come and gone, leaving in its wake immense destruction, pain, and suffering across our nation,” said Dr. Gonsalves. He highlighted the anxiety and uncertainty faced by hundreds of families, particularly on Union Island, where 90% of the houses were severely damaged. The Union Island Airport’s roof was completely destroyed, compounding the island’s challenges.

Damaged property in the wake of the passage of Hurricane Beryl

Preliminary reports from Mayreau and Canouan suggest similar levels of destruction. In Bequia, while there was damage, it was not as extensive as in the southern Grenadines. Tragically, one death has been reported, with concerns that more fatalities may emerge as assessments continue.

Dr. Gonsalves emphasized the need for unity and urgent reconstruction. He announced the reopening of government facilities and urged businesses to resume operations, albeit with sensitivity to employees’ circumstances. The island faces widespread blackouts and water supply issues, with efforts underway to restore essential services.

“We have to begin the assessment of the physical situation, the buildings, the river defenses, the sea defenses,” Dr. Gonsalves stated. He assured the public of ongoing efforts to restore electricity and water, with teams working tirelessly to address these critical needs.

The Prime Minister also mentioned forthcoming support from regional allies, including supplies from the President of Guyana. He acknowledged the resilience of the Vincentian people, urging them to come together and rebuild their lives and communities.

“We are a resilient people, and I’m sure that we will roll up our short sleeves and get to work,” he concluded, expressing gratitude for the tireless efforts of emergency workers and volunteers. Despite the devastation, Dr. Gonsalves remains optimistic about the nation’s ability to recover and rebuild.

The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) continues to closely monitor the tropical wave located near 48W 1100km (600 miles) east of Barbados at 9 am today Tuesday July 2nd, 2024.

The tropical wave is expected to affect Barbados early tomorrow Wednesday July 3rd, 2024. During that time there is the possibility of flash-flooding due to moderate to heavy rainfall, occasional gusty winds and agitated marine conditions.

The public is encouraged to continue monitoring the BMS, DEM and GIS websites and their respective social media pages along with the local media networks for further updates on this system.

A significant loss to the fishing community.

Kemar Harris the Chairman of the Fisheries Advisory Committee stated in his assessment of the state of the Bridgetown fisheries complex yesterday after fishing vessels were either sunk or severely damaged during the passage or Hurricane Beryl.

Beryl brought large water swells and the hazardous sea conditions  with over topping waves spilling to businesses and road ways.

The Met Office had predicted that swells measured between 11 and 13 feet.