According to the National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Beryl is anticipated to strengthen into a major hurricane as it approaches the Caribbean. The storm, currently located approximately 820 miles east-southeast of Barbados, is moving west at a speed of 23 miles per hour with maximum sustained winds of 65 miles per hour.

Forecasters expect Beryl to transform into a hurricane before reaching the Windward Islands, including Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, and Martinique. The National Hurricane Center notes that the system is projected to move across the Windward Islands late Sunday night and Monday, indicating a relatively quick westward to west-northwestward motion.

In response to the approaching hurricane, hurricane watches have been issued for Barbados, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada. These areas may experience hurricane conditions on Sunday night or early Monday morning. Meanwhile, tropical storm watches are in effect for Martinique and Tobago, where storm conditions are likely to occur by Monday morning.

The National Hurricane Center warns of life-threatening storm surges that could elevate water levels by 5 to 7 feet above normal tide levels in the hurricane watch areas, posing a significant risk to coastal regions. Destructive waves are also expected to impact the coast.

Heavy rainfall is also anticipated, with the possibility of 3 to 6 inches of precipitation across Barbados and the Windward Islands on Sunday into Monday. This substantial amount of rainfall may cause flooding in some areas.

The National Hurricane Center anticipates the issuance of additional warnings and watches for the region later on Saturday as the storm progresses. Residents and authorities are advised to closely monitor the situation and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

As Beryl gathers strength and moves closer to the Caribbean, it is crucial for individuals and communities in the affected areas to stay informed and follow the guidance of local authorities to minimize the impact of this potentially dangerous hurricane.