VIDEO: Storm 'Beryl' Hits Jamaica, Resulting in Over 7 Deaths

On Wednesday, Storm 'Beryl', a Category 4 powerful storm, passed over Jamaica causing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and significant damage, resulting in at least 7 fatalities in the southeastern Caribbean. The U.S. National Hurricane Center reported that the 'eye' of Storm 'Beryl' struck the southern coast of Jamaica.

An emergency has been declared in Jamaica, and the island was designated a disaster zone just hours before the impact of 'Beryl'. Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced that the disaster zone provision will remain in effect for the next seven days.

A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for all residential areas in vulnerable regions prone to flooding and landslides. The island has experienced hours of rainfall as residents heeded authorities' warnings to take shelter until the storm passes. Most of the capital is without power.

Holness stated at midday on Wednesday that about 500 people have been accommodated in shelters. In the evening, he declared that Jamaica has yet to witness ‘the worst that could happen.’ According to the government's information service, several roads in the interior of the country have been damaged by fallen trees and debris, while some areas in the northern part remain without electricity.