The Caribbean marks one year since the impacts of Hurricane Beryl—the earliest Atlantic Category 5 storm on record—slammed into the region. While the destruction was devastating, a resilient recovery is underway, even as the region races to build long-term climate resilience.
Over June–July 2024, Hurricane Beryl tore through islands like Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Jamaica, Barbados, and others. The storm caused at least 73 deaths and inflicted around US$8.8 billion worth of damage, including obliterated buildings and devastated infrastructure . Grenada’s Carriacou and Petite Martinique saw over 90% of structures damaged, with many residents displaced.
In the aftermath, emergency support poured in. The UN activated a US$4 million aid response, CCRIF triggered a record US$44 million payout, enabling Grenada to suspend US$30 million in debt repayments. Barbados received US$54 million from the World Bank to rebuild vital fisheries and port infrastructure. Trinidad, Guyana, and Costa Rica provided regional logistical support in the spirit of Caribbean solidarity.
Tourism, though initially hit hard, rebounded quickly. Air travel data shows a mere 2% regional drop in bookings between June 30 and July 23, 2024, with the US market rebounding to year-on-year growth within days. Grenada, Jamaica, and Barbados recorded rapid tourism recovery supported by strategic resilience measures.
Key policy and infrastructure lessons have emerged. Some critical areas that have been highlighted are the need for stronger building codes, renewable energy integration, and agricultural schemes to support disaster-hit communities. Regional planners echo this, advocating for climate-resilient strategies and private-sector engagement ahead of COP29.
Yet challenges persist. Many affected residents still live in tents; damaged homes and schools remain, particularly across Carriacou and Union Island. Nations like Grenada continue pushing for climate reparations and legal accountability from wealthy polluters.
While the impacts of Hurricane Beryl were catastrophic, the Caribbean has showcased resilience through swift rebuilding and tourism recovery. However, the year also laid bare the urgent need for structural reforms, regional coordination, and investment in climate adaptation to safeguard the future.
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