🌀 Cayman Islands on high alert as Hurricane Beryl approaches

The Cayman Islands were placed under hurricane alert on Monday as Hurricane Beryl, a category four storm with winds near 140mph, made its way into the Caribbean. The hurricane's path and intensity have been fluctuating, causing uncertainty about the potential impact on the islands. Beryl is expected to reach the Cayman Islands on Wednesday night or Thursday morning, passing to the south of Grand Cayman. The hurricane alert was issued on the advice of the director of the national weather service on Sunday evening. 🌀

Acting Deputy Governor Eric Bush urged the community to prepare for the potential impact of the hurricane. Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly said that efforts were being coordinated to ensure a comprehensive response is in place. The Hazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI), in collaboration with the National Weather Service (CINWS), are closely monitoring the hurricane’s trajectory and will provide updates as the situation evolves. The National Hazard Management Executive was set to meet to review the status of preparedness efforts on all three islands. 🌧️

As the hurricane alert was issued, supermarkets and stores saw a surge of shoppers stocking up on supplies. Most supermarkets and hardware stores extended their opening hours to 9pm despite being a public holiday. Cayman Airways also initiated a change-fee waiver for customers who wish to voluntarily adjust their travel plans this week. The airline will waive applicable change fees, and fare difference, for travel at a later date for customers whose existing bookings meet certain conditions. 🛒