By Belize Live News Staff: The Belize Red Cross is mobilizing support for neighboring Caribbean countries severely impacted by the devastating force of Hurricane Beryl. While Belize was fortunate to escape the storm’s path, several islands, including Grenada, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Barbados, Jamaica, St. Lucia, and the Cayman Islands, are grappling with extensive damage and loss.
Hurricane Beryl, the earliest Category 5 storm ever recorded in the Atlantic, first hit Barbados on July 1st before making landfall in Carriacou, Grenada as a Category 4 hurricane. The storm’s fury left 95% of homes damaged or destroyed in Carriacou and Petite Martinique, and a staggering 100% in the southern Grenadines. Communication, access, and basic services remain severely compromised in these areas.
As the hurricane moved westward, it inflicted further devastation on Jamaica, displacing thousands and causing catastrophic flooding. Homes, schools, farms, and critical infrastructure were destroyed, mirroring the devastation experienced by the previously impacted islands.
The preliminary reports indicate eleven fatalities and widespread destruction across the affected islands. Thousands of people are currently seeking refuge in shelters, many without access to basic necessities and communication.
In response to this crisis, the Belize Red Cross has opened a Disaster Account (#1082665) at Heritage Bank Limited to collect donations from individuals and organizations within Belize. The appeal will remain open from July to November 2024.
For international donors, the Belize Red Cross has provided detailed instructions for wire transfers through Citibank N.A. and Crown Agents Bank.
Lily Bowman, Director General of the Belize Red Cross, emphasized the importance of regional solidarity in the face of such disasters. “Our Caribbean neighbors are in dire need of our support,” she stated. “Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference in their recovery efforts.”
The Belize Red Cross is committed to working with its partners in the affected countries to ensure that the aid reaches those who need it most.
