–as Windward Islands brace for Category 4 Hurricane Beryl
–CARICOM Summit postponed in light of hurricane watch, weather warnings

GUYANA has pledged support to its sister Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations as the region prepares to grapple with an intensifying Category Four hurricane.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who is also the current CARICOM Chairman, on Sunday, in a statement on his official Facebook page, disclosed that he has engaged several leaders, and assured them of Guyana’s support.

“Our prayers, love, and thoughts are with all of our Caribbean brothers and sisters, especially those in the direct path of Hurricane Beryl. Today, I spoke with many leaders to assure them of Guyana’s support, and we are all praying for the best. I appeal to all citizens in the region to follow their national advisories,” the Guyanese president said.

Meanwhile, CARICOM’s 47th Regular Meeting Heads of Government, scheduled for Grenada from 3-5 July, has been postponed to a date to be determined.

The regional secretariat, in a statement noted that the primary focus of the region is now on citizen safety and security. Several member states, including host nation Grenada, are now engaged in emergency preparations, and planning to address the aftermath of the hurricane.

“We implore everyone in the path of this hurricane to take all necessary protective measures.

“The community stands ready to support our member states which will be affected by this dangerous hurricane,” the secretariat said late Sunday afternoon.

Hurricane warnings are in effect for Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, and Tobago.

Reports up to press time indicated that the hurricane is expected to produce three to six inches of rain across Barbados and the Windward Islands through Monday (today).
Hurricane Beryl is predicated to bring a risk of heavy rainfall, destructive hurricane-force winds, and dangerous storm surges and waves.

Tobago has since been placed under a Red Level warning.

Meanwhile, several regional flights have been postponed, as many of the major airports are also closing their doors.