As Hurricane Beryl moves toward the Caribbean, it is predicted to strengthen into a major storm that is "extremely dangerous."

As Hurricane Beryl, the first storm of the 2024 Atlantic season, moves toward the Caribbean, it is expected to be a rapid intensification into a major hurricane. A powerful storm of that nature should come with potentially life-threatening storm surges and pounding hurricane-force winds as it approaches Barbados and the Windward Islands.

.Update at 5 a.m. ET: Beryl was about 465 miles east-southeast of Barbados. At this point, it had intensified to a Category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 100 mph. According to the NHC, Beryl is undergoing rapid intensification, having increased from 35 mph to 75 mph in less than one day. This is classified as a very large acceleration, hence putting Beryl in the category of a rapidly intensifying storm, defined by an increase in wind speeds of 35 mph or greater within a 24-hour period.

The NHC said Beryl is expected to reach Category 4 strength before it makes landfall in the Windward Islands late Sunday or early Monday. It would most probably be a major hurricane before reaching areas like Barbados and the Windward Islands, said NHC director Mike Brennan. He warned that there would be "devastating wind damage" caused in regions where the eyewall of Beryl makes landfalls. The storm is forecast to keep churning through the eastern and central Caribbean well into early next week without losing its strength.

Beryl is expected to heavily pound the visited areas. Residents in areas under hurricane warnings, mainly, are urged to prepare for heavy storm effects which include strong hurricane-force winds, hefty rainfall, and perilous storm surges. The NHC predicted that Beryl might bring in rain with an amount of between 3 to 6 inches, resulting in localized flooding over the Windward Islands from Sunday night via Monday. Additionally, a perhaps life-threatening storm surge may lift water levels by as high as 5 to 7 feet above normal tide levels in areas of onshore flow near where Beryl makes landfall.

Hurricane warnings have been posted for Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadine Islands, and Grenada. The NoAA has issued tropical storm warnings and watches for Martinique and Tobago, while Dominica is under a tropical storm watch. More specific information about Beryl's strength and impacts should become evident as the storm is directly observed by aircraft, beginning on Sunday.

The fact that Hurricane Beryl is now well developed in advance of the customary August 11 start of the hurricane season is noteworthy. One such development, well ahead of the storming season, insists that early preparedness must be vigilant from the affected communities. Residents are advised to take safety measures by continuous monitoring of any updates and advisories provided by local authorities and meteorological services.

As Hurricane Beryl is expected to bring threats of danger, so the area-related emergency management agencies mobilize resources by issuing evacuation orders wherever necessary. Shelters are being made ready, and residents are asked to take the necessary precautions regarding house safety measures, stocking up on basic supplies, and following evacuation and safety advisories. The rapid strengthening of Beryl once again underlines how hurricanes are very unpredictable in behavior and that a prepared early mitigation effort is essential.

The effects of Beryl could be far-reaching. Besides the direct danger storm surges and damaging winds pose, the potential for heavy rainfall from the hurricane may cause flash-flooding, landslides, and other hazards, especially in mountainous and low-lying areas. Coastal areas are at greater risk because large beach erosion and loss of properties are likely to occur from the impact of the storm surge and strong waves.

As Hurricane Beryl bears down on the Caribbean, very clearly spelled out is the importance of community resilience and preparedness. From local governments right down to disaster response teams, plans are being laid out to ensure all citizens will be safe and sound while preparing for what comes after the storm's passage. Effective communication and prompt action will mean everything in dealing with a hurricane packing immense force like this one.

On the whole, Hurricane Beryl represents a staggering danger to the Caribbean countries as it rapidly evolves into a major hurricane. Hamas warned of life-threatening storm surges, very strong winds, and drenching rains, which would foretell the need for very early preparation and following advisories on safety. Residents and authorities should be on guard and proactive regarding the risks created by this fast-intensifying storm.