Hurricane Beryl: Port Louis Marina Supports Carriacou’s Recovery Efforts

Hurricane Beryl struck Grenada on July 1, causing significant damage to Carriacou while leaving Port Louis Marina unharmed. The marina is now assisting relief efforts for the affected island community by collecting supplies and coordinating aid. Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell emphasized the devastation, noting that 98% of buildings were damaged, but aid is being mobilized swiftly.

On July 1, Hurricane Beryl struck Grenada, but Port Louis Marina remained unharmed. The marina staff and yacht owners were safe, even as the storm caused extensive damage, particularly on the island of Carriacou, which is part of Grenada. In response, the marina, alongside yacht owners and local businesses, is organizing aid for the affected communities.

Prior to the hurricane’s anticipated arrival, Port Louis Marina adhered to government safety guidelines, closing 24 hours beforehand. The marina’s established hurricane-safety plan proved effective, as staff strengthened docks and provided additional mooring lines. Post-storm assessments revealed no damage to the marina.

Conversely, Carriacou, a small island measuring 13 square miles, experienced devastating impacts. Hurricane Beryl made landfall as a Category 4 storm, featuring sustained winds of 150 mph, making it the strongest hurricane recorded in both June and July. The rapid intensification was notable, evolving from a tropical depression to a major hurricane in under 42 hours.

“It is utter and complete devastation, not just of the homes but of the environment,” stated Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell. He reported that 98 percent of buildings were damaged, though neighboring nations have begun to provide aid. “We think the mobilization is going to be rapid, but we want it to be sensible and orderly as well,” he added.

In collaboration with the Carriacou Relief Operation, Port Louis Marina began accepting donations on July 2. Basic supplies such as clothing and water were collected, while the marina contributed medical kits, bottled water, and canned goods. Relief efforts are being coordinated by the marina to address the immediate needs of the island’s residents.

Grenada is currently under a state of emergency until July 7. Meanwhile, the staff at Port Louis Marina are exploring options for delivering “more substantial aid” to Carriacou, emphasizing the yachting community’s willingness to help during crises.

Zara Tremlett, the marina’s general manager, noted, “There are many, many yacht owners and crew willing to help deliver to these otherwise fairly remote locations. It is a reminder of how the yachting community consistently pulls together in times of crisis.”

In conclusion, despite Hurricane Beryl’s severe impact on Grenada, Port Louis Marina remained undamaged and is actively aiding the recovery efforts for Carriacou, which suffered extensive destruction. The marina’s proactive measures and community support highlight the resilience of the yachting community during times of crisis. Efforts continue to mobilize resources effectively, underscoring the importance of coordinated aid in disaster response.

Original Source: megayachtnews.com