Beryl nears Caribbean as it becomes the earliest category 4 hurricane on record

Hurricane Beryl has rapidly intensified into an "extremely dangerous" category 4 storm as it heads towards the south-east Caribbean, prompting urgent warnings from officials for residents to seek shelter. This storm is the earliest category 4 Atlantic hurricane on record, surpassing Hurricane Dennis in 2005. Beryl is expected to pass near Barbados, bringing life-threatening winds and storm surge to the region. The hurricane has prompted preparations across the Caribbean, with hurricane warnings issued for several islands. Residents are urged to take the storm seriously and make necessary preparations. The storm's rapid intensification is attributed to warm ocean waters, with experts highlighting the unprecedented nature of Beryl's development for this time of year. Leaders in the region are also monitoring a cluster of thunderstorms trailing the hurricane, which have the potential to develop into a tropical depression. The situation remains critical as Caribbean nations brace for the impact of this historic hurricane.