Hurricane Beryl, which tore through Caribbean islands this week, became the earliest Category 5 hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic.
A Category 5 is the highest on the Saffir-Simpson scale, with sustained winds of 157 mph or greater.
Beryl’s strength fluctuated as it traveled toward Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. However, it was only the second Category 5 recorded in the Atlantic in July.
This storm’s intensity was fueled by abnormally warm ocean waters resulting from climate change and fossil fuel pollution.
“Hurricanes don’t know what month it is; they only know their ambient environment,” said Jim Kossin, a hurricane expert and science advisor at nonprofit First Street Foundation.
Recent News Highlights
Here are some significant stories that made headlines this past week, along with notable images that capture the essence of these events.
People on jet skis watch as the Thompson Fire burns in Oroville, California. Thousands were ordered to evacuate in Northern California. Ethan Swope/APUS President Joe Biden discusses critical matters as he prepares for Camp David. Following a recent debate, many Democratic leaders are expressing concerns about his candidacy for reelection.A massive sinkhole on a soccer field opened as a result of an underground mine collapse in Alton, Illinois. Lawrence Bryant/ReutersFourth of July fireworks illuminate the sky over the National Mall in Washington, DC. Mark Schiefelbein/APTragic scenes emerge as people mourn those lost in a crowd crush during a religious gathering in Hathras, India. Ritesh Shukla/Getty ImagesFormer US President Donald Trump addresses supporters at a campaign rally in Chesapeake, Virginia. This event follows discussions around his candidacy for the upcoming election.
