Beryl Memorial today in Southern Grenadines

One year ago today, on July 1, 2024, Hurricane Beryl, a category five hurricane, struck St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and nearby islands, leaving behind a wake of destruction never before seen in the Southern Grenadines.

After the winds died down, an assessment found that 95% of the buildings on Union Island were destroyed while the damage on Mayreau and Canouan was substantial. Bequia, and mainland St Vincent suffered also, but not as much as the Southern Grenadines.

Five men were later reported missing at sea and have been presumed dead; while on land, the hurricane claimed six lives.

The natural disaster left a trail of destruction that saw families and individuals without homes and basic necessities and the government with over US$230.6 million in damage, a figure which represents approximately 22% of the SVG’s 2023 Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The hurricane caused widespread destruction, but the islands have been rebuilding, with a focus on reconstruction and infrastructure investments. As a result of that focus, today, during a Beryl memorial, the government will officially open new ferry terminals on Mayreau and Canouan.

The opening ceremony on Mayreau will feature gospel singer, Oto Essien and others, while the event on Canouan will hear songs from Sherrika Shallow-John and others.

The events are expected to be attended by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and other government officials.