Hurricane Beryl is currently breaking early-season intensity records in the Atlantic Basin, with sustained winds near 165 mph making it a category five storm. It is expected to cruise west, reaching Jamaica and the Cayman Islands before making landfall in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The storm is forecasted to re-emerge in the Bay of Campeche as a tropical storm by the weekend.
Despite the current trajectory, there are indications that the ridge of high pressure steering Beryl west may break down, potentially allowing the storm to curve north closer to Texas. The storm’s path will depend on its location in the Bay of Campeche.
Beryl is the earliest category five hurricane on record, surpassing the previous record set by Hurricane Emily in 2005. It also holds the record for the strongest July hurricane by wind speed and is the strongest June hurricane on record.
Tropical Storm Chris had formed briefly on June 30th and dissipated after making landfall in Mexico, ahead of the typical hurricane season timeline. Invest 96L is another tropical system being monitored as it heads west into the Caribbean. Additionally, the name “Debby” is next on the list for named storms.
The WLOX First Alert Weather Team continues to track Beryl and other tropical systems, providing updates and forecasts to keep residents informed. While there are no immediate threats to South Mississippi, it is important to stay prepared and vigilant during hurricane season.
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