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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Sami Quadri

Hurricane Beryl heads towards Mexico as Royal Navy sends aid and King offers support

The Royal Navy has dispatched warship HMS Trent to assist with relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Beryl, as the storm continues its path towards Mexico.

The hurricane, which earlier reached category five status, battered Caribbean islands this week, causing widespread damage and claiming at least nine lives.

HMS Trent, an offshore patrol vessel, set sail from Puerto Rico on Wednesday. It is carrying essential supplies including bottled water and emergency equipment.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed the ship is expected to reach the Cayman Islands this weekend to provide support.

The ship's crew of more than 50 sailors will assist with reconnaissance missions and assess damage to affected communities.

A person stands amidst damaged property following the passing of Hurricane Beryl in Union Island (via REUTERS)

Meanwhile, Hurricane Beryl continues to move westward across the Caribbean Sea, with Mexico now in its projected path.

It came as King Charles III has expressed his condolences to those affected by Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean.

In a statement, the monarch said: "My family and I have been profoundly saddened to learn of the dreadful destruction caused by Hurricane Beryl across the Caribbean. Above all, we send our heartfelt condolences to the friends and families of those who have so cruelly lost their lives.

"I have seen the extraordinary spirit of resilience and solidarity that people across the Caribbean have shown in response to such destruction - a spirit which has been called upon too often - and so I also send my particular gratitude to the emergency services and volunteers who are supporting the rescue and recovery efforts."

The King added: "At this most difficult of times, please know that our most special thoughts and prayers are with all those whose lives, livelihoods and property have been so utterly devastated."

The devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl continues to be felt across the Caribbean, with the death toll now standing at nine.

Three fatalities have been reported in Grenada, three in Venezuela, two in Jamaica and one in St Vincent & the Grenadines.

Although the hurricane has weakened to a category three storm, it remains a significant threat.

Authorities are warning both residents and tourists in Mexico to prepare for the storm's expected landfall on Friday.

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