Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell Addresses Hurricane Beryl’s Devastation in Grenada, Carriacou, and Petit Martinique
Grenada, July 1, 2024 – Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, addressing the nation and the wider region, provided an urgent update on the impacts of Hurricane Beryl.
The Category 4 hurricane, bordering on Category 5, has wrought significant damage across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petit Martinique, leaving citizens and infrastructure heavily affected.
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“It has been a long morning, and perhaps an even longer morning for our brothers and sisters in Carriacou and Petit Martinique who are bearing the brunt of Hurricane Beryl,” Prime Minister Mitchell stated, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
Minister Andrew, responsible for Carriacou and Petit Martinique affairs, reported extensive devastation.
The islands are facing extreme damage, including widespread roof loss, building destruction, and a complete power outage. Communication remains challenging due to rough seas and the hurricane’s eye passing over Carriacou.
“We anticipate another 3 to 4 hours of intense wind and storm surge, with the likelihood of even greater damage,” Prime Minister Mitchell warned. He urged citizens to continue hunkering down and praying for the safety of those on the affected islands.
Immediate Response and Recovery Plans
Prime Minister Mitchell outlined the government’s immediate response plans, focusing on damage assessment, recovery, and stabilization. The Housing Authority has been instructed to provide temporary housing to those without shelter, utilizing Chinese-built affordable homes. The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Carriacou and Petit Martinique Affairs have been directed to identify local suppliers for essential goods and tools to support the recovery efforts.
“Once it is safe, I will journey to Carriacou to assess the damage and provide a full report to the nation,” Mitchell said, highlighting the urgency and commitment to swift action.
Widespread Impact Across Grenada
Although the eye of the hurricane did not pass over mainland Grenada, the island is experiencing strong winds, storm surges, and heavy precipitation. There are reports of significant damage, including roofs being blown off buildings such as the Central Police Station in St. George’s and the roof at the Mt. Gay Hospital.
“We urge everyone to remain safe and continue following the advisories from NADMA and the Meteorological Office,” Mitchell advised. He acknowledged the challenges faced by those in shelters, assuring them that relief efforts would commence as soon as conditions allow.
Regional Coordination and Support
Prime Minister Mitchell confirmed ongoing coordination with regional partners, including Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, to ensure a unified response. Union Island, part of the Grenadines, is also experiencing the hurricane’s effects.
Looking Ahead
Despite the destruction, Prime Minister Mitchell remained optimistic about Grenada’s resilience. “Rest assured, Grenada will emerge from this stronger, more united, and better able to deal with hurricanes and other climatic events in the future.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude to the citizens, the press, and all those working tirelessly through this difficult time, promising continued updates as reliable information becomes available.
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Hold on to hope
PM Mitchell…we (antigua abaco dominica jamaica) have been there. 🫂
PM Brown used the words decimated to describe what happened on Barbuda and tears immediately came to my eyes. You WILL rise again
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