Hurricane Beryl makes landfall in Mexican coast

CANCUN/TULUM, Mexico (Reuters) - Hurricane Beryl, a Category 2 storm, made landfall in Mexico's top tourist destinations early on Friday, triggering a red alert in the region following its deadly trail of destruction across several Caribbean islands.

The storm's core shifted over the Yucatan, with winds slowing to approximately 100 mph (160 kph) as it reached the northeastern region of Tulum.

While the storm's center moving through Tulum resulted in slower winds and some downed branches, the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) continues to anticipate dangerous winds, storm surges, and destructive waves in the area of landfall.

A hurricane warning has been issued for the coast from Puerto Costa Maya to Cancun, including Cozumel. Hurricane Beryl, the first of the 2024 Atlantic season, was at one point a Category 5 storm, making it the earliest Category 5 storm on record. This extraordinary storm season is believed by scientists to be fueled by climate change.

Mexico's civil protection agency has issued a red alert, signaling a maximum hazard threat. The agency has advised residents to remain in their homes or seek refuge in storm shelters. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador echoed this advice, urging those in the storm's path to seek shelter. He emphasized the importance of prioritising life over material possessions in a social media post.

In Quintana Roo, home to Cancun, Governor Mara Lezama posted a video of Tulum's downtown showing strong winds and rain already affecting the region. He urged residents to take all necessary precautions as the storm's impact is expected to be felt across the state.