The first significant effects of the passage of Hurricane Béryl south of the West Indies are being felt in Martinique. In addition to the heavy rainfall, the swell is strong on the coast, particularly in Sainte-Luce where rising waters threaten homes.
Martinique was relatively spared by the passage of Hurricane Beryl, a category 4 hurricane. Moving rapidly towards the west-northwest at an average speed of 31 km/h, the center of the hurricane was located approximately 200 km south of the island at 12 noon.
Despite the distance, the first significant effects are already being felt. In addition to the heavy rainfall, the swell is particularly strong on the coast of Martinique. Météo-France services predicted that “localized submersions due to the sea invading certain beaches or adjoining roads may be observed”.
This is particularly the case in the town of Sainte-Luce, located in the south of the territory, where the coastline is lined with restaurants and private homes. For now, residents are resisting by closing the doors of their houses, but they will no longer be dry if the swell increases.
Météo-France’s forecasts are not optimistic. “Along the southern coast, between Sainte-Anne and Le Diamant, average lows could reach 2m50 to 3m50.”
This means that infrastructure along the coast may suffer damage. However, an improvement in sea conditions is expected overnight, offering a potential respite for residents and infrastructure.
