How Big is Hurricane Beryl?

Hurricane Beryl, the second hurricane of the 2019 Atlantic hurricane season, has left many wondering about its size and impact. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of Hurricane Beryl’s size, intensity, and what makes it stand out.

Size: How Beryl Measures Up

Hurricane Beryl is a relatively small storm, with a diameter of approximately 15 to 20 miles (24 to 32 kilometers) at its widest point. This is significantly smaller than some of the larger hurricanes that have made headlines in recent years. For comparison, Hurricane Irma, which devastated the Caribbean and Southeastern United States in 2017, had a diameter of over 400 miles (640 kilometers) at its peak.

Despite its smaller size, Beryl is still a powerful storm, with maximum sustained winds of 85 miles per hour (137 kilometers per hour) and a central pressure of 981 millibars. This makes it a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, indicating significant damage potential.

Impact: Why Beryl Matters

Hurricane Beryl’s smaller size may not translate to catastrophic damage, but it’s still a significant storm that’s affecting the Caribbean and beyond. Here are a few ways Beryl’s impact is being felt:

1. Island Hopping: Beryl’s small size has allowed it to move quickly across the Caribbean, affecting multiple islands in a single day. This has led to disruptions in transportation, communication, and daily life for thousands of people.
2. Rainfall: Heavy rainfall associated with Beryl’s outer bands has caused flash flooding and power outages in several areas, including Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.
3. Wind Damage: As a powerful Category 1 hurricane, Beryl’s strong winds are capable of causing significant damage to buildings, infrastructure, and trees. Residents in affected areas are advised to seek shelter and take necessary precautions.

Conclusion: Beryl’s Implications for the Atlantic Hurricane Season

Hurricane Beryl’s size and impact serve as a reminder that even smaller storms can still pack a punch. As the Atlantic hurricane season continues, it’s essential to remain vigilant and prepared for any storm that may develop.

While Beryl’s smaller size has limited its damage potential compared to some other hurricanes, it’s still an important reminder of the importance of hurricane preparedness and the need for continuous monitoring of the Atlantic’s tropical activity.

Stay informed and stay safe!