EU releases humanitarian aid in the wake of Hurricane Beryl

In response to the impact of Hurricane Beryl in the lesser Antilles, the European Union (EU) has approved €450 000 in humanitarian aid, to help address the most urgent needs of the affected populations in Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

A release from the Office of the Delegation to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean states that the funding will serve to provide assistance to the most vulnerable people affected by the hurricane, including cash assistance, water, sanitation and hygiene, food items and other basic needs, among other aspects.

To help with the emergency response, on July 2, 2024, the EU activated its Copernicus satellite service in rapid mapping mode. Five maps have been produced so far.

“Hurricane Beryl has lashed the Caribbean with unprecedented force at this time of the year, causing widespread suffering and damage in several islands. The initial funding just approved will bring much needed relief to people that have seen their lives upended by this disaster, both in Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,” Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič stated.

She said the EU was closely monitoring the trajectory of the storm as it moves further across the region “and stands ready to help other populations” that might be affected in the next hours.

“ All our response instruments, humanitarian aid and civil protection, will be mobilised if necessary,” she said. This new funding comes in addition to the over €2 million already allocated this year for humanitarian aid and disaster preparedness in the Caribbean Region.