The Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) issued a warning on June 30, predicting that the island would need international aid to recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. The hurricane was forecasted to hit islands in southern windwards like Tobago, Grenada, St Vincent, and Barbados as a category four hurricane around midnight. The TT Met Office confirmed on that day that Beryl had been upgraded to a category four hurricane with winds exceeding 130km/hr, raising concerns that it might hit Tobago as a category five hurricane.
During a press conference in Bacolet, hosted by THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, TEMA Director Allan Stewart emphasized the potential catastrophic impact of Hurricane Beryl on Tobago. Stewart urged Tobagonians to brace themselves for a 72-hour ordeal and highlighted the necessity of international relief given the enormity of the situation. International assistance was deemed crucial by authorities as the system seemed to surpass the capacity of local and national resources.
As Stewart discussed the preparedness efforts, Meteorological Officer 2 Carolyn De Coteau cautioned that Tobago was on course to face the direct impact of a category four hurricane. De Coteau warned about significant rainfall, storm surges, and strong winds expected on the island. She advised individuals to secure their properties and emphasized the risk of flooding, especially in hilly areas.
With storm surges anticipated, fishermen were advised to secure their boats, and De Coteau highlighted potential rainfall levels and wind strengths that Tobago could experience. The island was placed on full alert, and shelters were prepared to accommodate those in need. Essential THA staff were required to report for duty, whereas other services were temporarily suspended to deal with any emergencies.
Amid an atmosphere of unease, residents of Tobago rushed to stock up on supplies before the impending hurricane. Lines formed at gas stations, and the Scarborough port saw intense activity as passengers tried to secure transportation to Trinidad. In light of the looming threat, Minister of Finance Colm Imbert mentioned the influx of boats seeking refuge in Trinidad from islands threatened by Hurricane Beryl.
As Tobagonians braced themselves for the impact of Hurricane Beryl, calls for unity and preparedness echoed across the island. Authorities emphasized the need for vigilance and empathy during this challenging time, urging residents to prioritize safety and support each other in facing the potential devastation ahead.
