INSIDER
‘Forgiveness is a hard thing’: Woman who lost sister during Beryl outage reacts to CenterPoint CEO’s apology
Read full article: ‘Forgiveness is a hard thing’: Woman who lost sister during Beryl outage reacts to CenterPoint CEO’s apologyOn Thursday, KPRC 2′s Gage Goulding spoke with Jason Wells, the CEO of CenterPoint Energy. This was Wells’ first interview with a TV news station since the aftermaths of the May derecho and Hurricane Beryl.
Where’s the money? Displaced couple says FEMA is leaving them in limbo
Read full article: Where’s the money? Displaced couple says FEMA is leaving them in limboA New Caney family says they’ve been displaced for the past 4 months because of severe weather. During this time, they’ve been left in limbo by FEMA, which still hasn’t sent them money they were approved for.
How to know if you’re eligible for FEMA assistance for vehicular damage from Hurricane Beryl
Read full article: How to know if you’re eligible for FEMA assistance for vehicular damage from Hurricane BerylWas your car damaged or destroyed during Hurricane Beryl? If so, you may be eligible for FEMA relief on expenses not covered by insurance.
‘It should’ve been done a long time ago’: Viewers get help for tree debris piling up since Derecho
Read full article: ‘It should’ve been done a long time ago’: Viewers get help for tree debris piling up since DerechoTonight, we have a follow-up to a story we first brought you earlier this week involving a massive pile of tree debris that had been lingering outside of a Garden Oaks home for around seven weeks following Hurricane Beryl.
Houston families turning to KPRC 2 for help in picking up delayed storm debris
Read full article: Houston families turning to KPRC 2 for help in picking up delayed storm debrisOn Wednesday, KPRC 2′s Deven Clarke spoke to a family in the Garden Oaks neighborhood of northwest Harris County, who was still dealing with a huge debris pile from Hurricane Beryl—more than 40 days after the tropical storm hit the Houston area.
Decaying debris pile removed, impacted family thanks KPRC 2 for bringing attention to issue
Read full article: Decaying debris pile removed, impacted family thanks KPRC 2 for bringing attention to issueOn Wednesday, KPRC 2′s Deven Clarke spoke to a family in the Garden Oaks neighborhood of northwest Harris County, who was still dealing with a huge debris pile from Hurricane Beryl—more than 40 days after the tropical storm hit the Houston area.
CenterPoint Energy highlights tree planting initiative to help restore public’s trust after Hurricane Beryl outages
Read full article: CenterPoint Energy highlights tree planting initiative to help restore public’s trust after Hurricane Beryl outagesAfter widespread of criticism over power outages during Hurricane Beryl, CenterPoint Energy is working to restore it’s image.
Post-Beryl debris piles now decaying, causing issues for families and school kids diverted into busy street, viewers say
Read full article: Post-Beryl debris piles now decaying, causing issues for families and school kids diverted into busy street, viewers sayIt has been more than 40 days since Hurricane Beryl tore down trees throughout the Houston area, leading to huge piles of debris being left outside many homes.
CenterPoint is fighting efforts by Houston and other cities for mandatory rate review
Read full article: CenterPoint is fighting efforts by Houston and other cities for mandatory rate reviewCenterPoint Energy has asked a judge to dismiss its mandatory rate review that was already pending before Hurricane Beryl.
Where’s my FEMA Check? Spring Branch woman tries tracking down emergency assistance funding
Read full article: Where’s my FEMA Check? Spring Branch woman tries tracking down emergency assistance fundingA Spring Branch woman anxious for information on the whereabouts of her FEMA funding visited a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Spring Branch in hopes of getting answers.
City of Houston tree waste collection has been expensive, as new fee looms
Read full article: City of Houston tree waste collection has been expensive, as new fee loomsThe City of Houston hired an army of sub-contractors to handle the millions of pounds of tree waste left in the wake of Beryl and the Derecho.
Q&A: How to balance your finances while waiting for your FEMA check to roll in
Read full article: Q&A: How to balance your finances while waiting for your FEMA check to roll inNearly three weeks after Hurricane Beryl pummeled through Texas, many residents are now left in a financial limbo as they wait for their FEMA checks to come in. We sat down with Derrick Kinney, financial expert with GetTheRaiseYouWant.com, shares how you can stay up to date with your bills while you wait for emergency funds.
‘Talk is cheap’: Outage victims react to CenterPoint’s apologies and promises to do better
Read full article: ‘Talk is cheap’: Outage victims react to CenterPoint’s apologies and promises to do betterPeople in the Almeda Plaza neighborhood say they don’t want to hear apologies and promises from CenterPoint. They say actions speak louder than words.
How Houstonians can voice concerns to CenterPoint for ‘chaos and frustration’ during Hurricane Beryl
Read full article: How Houstonians can voice concerns to CenterPoint for ‘chaos and frustration’ during Hurricane BerylOn Monday, lawmakers in Austin are planning to question leaders for CenterPoint Energy on the company’s performance in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Beryl.
Still dealing with storm debris from Beryl? Here’s how you can track the cleanup progress in Houston
Read full article: Still dealing with storm debris from Beryl? Here’s how you can track the cleanup progress in HoustonDo you still have debris from Beryl that you are waiting for the city to pick up? Well, here's how you can track the progress and figure out exactly when crews are set to come to remove the eye-sore plaguing many of our streets.
Was your fence damaged during Hurricane Beryl? If so, who’s responsible for paying for it? Here’s what we know
Read full article: Was your fence damaged during Hurricane Beryl? If so, who’s responsible for paying for it? Here’s what we knowWas your fence damaged during Hurricane Beryl? Are you confused about who's supposed to cover the cost? You, your neighbor or insurance? Well, we did the homework for you and here's what we found out:
Low-cost loan options for Hurricane Beryl recovery
Read full article: Low-cost loan options for Hurricane Beryl recoveryMany business owners and residents have faced significant challenges due to Hurricane Beryl. To assist with recovery efforts, we reached out to FEMA, which directed us to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for support options.
‘I think you’ll see a lot of places going down’: Restaurant owner suing CenterPoint warns of future blackouts
Read full article: ‘I think you’ll see a lot of places going down’: Restaurant owner suing CenterPoint warns of future blackoutsA Montrose restaurant owner who is part of a class-action lawsuit suing CenterPoint because of the recent power outages, is speaking to us about the impact having no power for days had on our local food industry.
Houston SPCA rescues hundreds of wild animals stranded by Beryl
Read full article: Houston SPCA rescues hundreds of wild animals stranded by BerylHurricane Beryl’s path through Houston was devastating for many, leaving a mess of debris and destruction the city won’t soon forget. But humans aren’t the only ones impacted by the recent extreme weather trends. Since Beryl swept through the city, Houston’s chapter of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has been working around the clock to protect creatures both large and small.
Debris from Hurricane Beryl causing eye sores in your neighborhood? Send us photos, we want to help get it cleaned up
Read full article: Debris from Hurricane Beryl causing eye sores in your neighborhood? Send us photos, we want to help get it cleaned upIs your Hurricane Beryl debris pile still sitting curbside? Drop a comment and let us know where you live, if so.
Kingwood, Porter residents feeling forgotten after going 9 days without power following Beryl
Read full article: Kingwood, Porter residents feeling forgotten after going 9 days without power following BerylWalking into Eric Lambert’s home in the Woodridge Forest neighborhood, it’s dark, and it’s been like this for nine days.
Mosquito woes post-Hurricane Beryl increase spraying efforts in Missouri City, Brazoria County
Read full article: Mosquito woes post-Hurricane Beryl increase spraying efforts in Missouri City, Brazoria CountyAs if we don’t have enough to deal with post-Hurricane Beryl—mosquitos are making it insufferable. Many residents across the Houston area have seen an uptick in those pesky and annoying insects.
WATCH: Footage released of sculpture being ‘beheaded’ at the University of Houston
Read full article: WATCH: Footage released of sculpture being ‘beheaded’ at the University of HoustonThe University of Houston Police Department has released surveillance footage that appears to show the moment when a controversial sculpture at the University of Houston was “beheaded” by a currently unidentified person around a week ago.
Lineman working to restore power in Galveston accused of beating fellow lineman, leaving him in critical condition
Read full article: Lineman working to restore power in Galveston accused of beating fellow lineman, leaving him in critical conditionThe Galveston Police Department said the incident happened around 1:15 a.m. Monday in the 3100 block of Seawall Blvd. Police were called after getting reports of a man lying on the sidewalk.
Fallen trees, house fire, flooding and heat: Hurricane Beryl’s deaths climb to 11
Read full article: Fallen trees, house fire, flooding and heat: Hurricane Beryl’s deaths climb to 11Hurricane Beryl wreaked havoc on the Texas Coast, leaving behind a trail of destruction and claiming 11 lives. From fallen trees crushing homes to tragic flooding incidents, the aftermath has been heartbreaking.
Humble woman sleeps in car for week waiting for power to be restored following Beryl
Read full article: Humble woman sleeps in car for week waiting for power to be restored following BerylIn the Classic Pines neighborhood in Humble, many residents are still without power, one week after Beryl hit the Greater Houston area.
Mayor Whitmire extends disaster declaration after Hurricane Beryl’s devastation
Read full article: Mayor Whitmire extends disaster declaration after Hurricane Beryl’s devastationIn response to the wreckage left by Hurricane Beryl, Houston Mayor John Whitmire has successfully extended the city's local disaster declaration. With unanimous approval from the city council, this move secures vital state and federal resources for recovery. The hurricane caused significant damage, including downed trees, debris, and prolonged power outages. Affected residents can look forward to updates from CenterPoint and a crucial meeting with the Public Utility Commission of Texas on July 25.
1-2 Punch: Houston-area homeowners facing new challenges after storms damage houses in back-to-back months
Read full article: 1-2 Punch: Houston-area homeowners facing new challenges after storms damage houses in back-to-back monthsWhen a derecho hit Houston in May, Cynthia Fronterhouse's home was severely damaged. Just a few months later, Hurricane Beryl struck, causing even more destruction. Now, like many Houstonians, she's facing the financial burden of paying multiple deductibles for storm repairs. How is this affecting our community's resilience? Share your experiences and thoughts with us. Tune in to KPRC 2 News at 5 and 6 for the full story.
‘I will be issuing an executive order’: Gov. Abbott examines CenterPoint’s future in Texas after Beryl response
Read full article: ‘I will be issuing an executive order’: Gov. Abbott examines CenterPoint’s future in Texas after Beryl responseTexas Governor Greg Abbott did not pull any punches Sunday afternoon in going after CenterPoint for their failures in getting the lights back on for Houstonians as well as hundreds of thousands of others in the area.
Where to get food, water as thousands remain without power post-Beryl
Read full article: Where to get food, water as thousands remain without power post-BerylIt's been a challenging week for many Houston residents and businesses still grappling with power outages caused by Hurricane Beryl. Families have lost refrigerated items, adding to the list of challenges. Fortunately, several food and water distribution sites are available across the city to help those in need.
After Beryl, Houston-area farmers pull together to face unique challenges
Read full article: After Beryl, Houston-area farmers pull together to face unique challengesThe misery of Houston’s lasting power outages extend beyond the big city and onto surrounding farms and ranches, where everything from animal bedding to feed is harder to come by since Hurricane Beryl turned off the lights.
‘Completely unacceptable:’ Gov. Abbott sets timetable for immediate action from CenterPoint after post-Beryl failures
Read full article: ‘Completely unacceptable:’ Gov. Abbott sets timetable for immediate action from CenterPoint after post-Beryl failuresTexas Governor Greg Abbott did not pull any punches Sunday afternoon in going after CenterPoint for their failures in getting the lights back on for Houstonians as well as hundreds of thousands of others in the area.
WATCH LIVE: Federal and local officials to provide update on Hurricane Beryl recovery
Read full article: WATCH LIVE: Federal and local officials to provide update on Hurricane Beryl recoveryFederal and local officials, including Bishop James Dixon, Congressman Al Green, and representatives from the offices of Commissioner Rodney Ellis and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, will provide updates on recovery efforts at NRG Park following Hurricane Beryl.
‘People falling through the cracks’: Katy residents left without power again after CenterPoint repair efforts fail
Read full article: ‘People falling through the cracks’: Katy residents left without power again after CenterPoint repair efforts failAfter Hurricane Beryl, Franklin Allaire and his neighbors in Williamsburg Settlement initially had their power restored, only for it to fail again due to a blown transformer.
Beryl aftermath includes uptick in cyber-crimes targeting victims, analyst says
Read full article: Beryl aftermath includes uptick in cyber-crimes targeting victims, analyst saysAs Southeast Texans work to recover from Hurricane Beryl, there are people out there looking to take advantage of those desperate for help.
Houston hospitals see spike in carbon monoxide cases as Hurricane Beryl power outages persist
Read full article: Houston hospitals see spike in carbon monoxide cases as Hurricane Beryl power outages persistAs Houston enters day five without power due to Hurricane Beryl, local hospitals report a significant increase in carbon monoxide-related emergency room visits. Many residents are using generators to cope with the heat and power essential appliances, but improper use is leading to dangerous CO exposure. “Generators can be lifesaving during an emergency, but because of the carbon monoxide, they can be deadly,” warns Carrie Bakunas, medical director at Memorial Hermann TMC. Remember to place generators at least 20 feet away from your home to avoid this invisible threat.
Power outages expected to last until next week in Matagorda, Brazoria and parts of Galveston County, CenterPoint says
Read full article: Power outages expected to last until next week in Matagorda, Brazoria and parts of Galveston County, CenterPoint saysAs Houston enters its fifth day without power following Hurricane Beryl, CenterPoint Energy updates on restoration efforts. With over a million homes still in the dark, crews are working 16-hour shifts to rebuild damaged infrastructure. "We know we still have a lot of work to do," says CenterPoint’s Jason Ryan.
93-year-old woman dies at independent living facility during Houston’s sweltering heat
Read full article: 93-year-old woman dies at independent living facility during Houston’s sweltering heatA local man is calling for changes to protocols at an independent living facility in Kingwood. It’s where he says his mother died early this morning during extremely hot conditions.
‘Be good to others, she taught me that’: Son shares memories of mother who died during Hurricane Beryl
Read full article: ‘Be good to others, she taught me that’: Son shares memories of mother who died during Hurricane BerylJose Loredo said his mother, Maria De La Luz Loredo, was sweet, persistent, and tried to make the best out of any situation. He said she was the American dream.
Carbon monoxide incidents on the rise after Hurricane Beryl as Houstonians are desperate to cool off
Read full article: Carbon monoxide incidents on the rise after Hurricane Beryl as Houstonians are desperate to cool offHouston-area doctors say carbon monoxide symptoms are hitting people across the area.
‘CenterPointless’ graffiti painted on I-10 as Houstonians grow frustrated with power outages reaching day 4
Read full article: ‘CenterPointless’ graffiti painted on I-10 as Houstonians grow frustrated with power outages reaching day 4More than 1 million CenterPoint customers are still without power four days after Hurricane Beryl hit, with temperatures soaring into the mid-90s. Despite the company's efforts to restore power and their newly launched restoration status tracker, many find the tool confusing and inaccurate. CenterPoint has brought in 12,000 additional workers and aims to restore power to hundreds of thousands by the weekend.
‘I don’t know how safe it is:’ Residents return to where Beryl made landfall in Matagorda
Read full article: ‘I don’t know how safe it is:’ Residents return to where Beryl made landfall in MatagordaResidents are slowly making their way back to Matagorda, Texas after Hurricane Beryl delivered a blow to the small coastal community.
‘We’re going to hold them accountable’: Houston Mayor’s buzzkill message for CenterPoint Energy
Read full article: ‘We’re going to hold them accountable’: Houston Mayor’s buzzkill message for CenterPoint EnergyThe mayor’s message was clear and to the point. He also later added that the city will not be letting the off the hook.
Closures announced for Thursday as Hurricane Beryl recovery continues
Read full article: Closures announced for Thursday as Hurricane Beryl recovery continuesHurricane Beryl left severe damage across parts of the Houston area this week, and multiple school districts and agencies will be keeping their doors closed on Thursday.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick updates Hurricane Beryl response and recovery efforts
Read full article: Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick updates Hurricane Beryl response and recovery effortsAs the Houston area works to recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick is providing updates on the state’s response.
PHOTOS: Houston Humane Society suffers damage to facilities from Hurricane Beryl
Read full article: PHOTOS: Houston Humane Society suffers damage to facilities from Hurricane BerylThe Houston Humane Society has begun recovery efforts after suffering extensive damage to its facility during Hurricane Beryl.
Closures and cancellations announced for Wednesday as Houston recovers from Hurricane Beryl
Read full article: Closures and cancellations announced for Wednesday as Houston recovers from Hurricane BerylHurricane Beryl left severe damage across parts of the Houston area this week, and multiple school districts will be keeping their campuses closed on Wednesday.
How to prevent a potential tree collapse before the next big storm?
Read full article: How to prevent a potential tree collapse before the next big storm?As Drew Smith was surveying the damage on his parents’ property caused by a fallen pecan tree that narrowly missed the main structure of their home, he expressed a sentiment that has crossed the minds of many in the aftermath of Beryl: “Come storm time, you never know when one of those widow-makers is going to come down,” Smith said.
Good Samaritan dies helping neighbors clean up storm debris from Beryl near New Caney
Read full article: Good Samaritan dies helping neighbors clean up storm debris from Beryl near New CaneyRichie Ross, 40, was a man of few words with a heart of gold. That is how his mother, Kathy Ross and his sister, Holly Atkins, describe him.
‘Clearly thought Beryl was fowl:’ Pigeons take cover outside East Texas store as Beryl moves inland
Read full article: ‘Clearly thought Beryl was fowl:’ Pigeons take cover outside East Texas store as Beryl moves inlandThe Lufkin Police Department shared photos taken by one of their officers of a group of pigeons taking cover near a store.
HPD employee dies in Hurricane Beryl floodwaters while on his way to work
Read full article: HPD employee dies in Hurricane Beryl floodwaters while on his way to workTragic news as a Houston Police Department employee lost his life driving through high waters on Houston Avenue during Hurricane Beryl. Mayor John Whitmire urges residents to stay off roads with lingering hazards like downed trees and power lines. Stay safe, Houston.
Hurricane Beryl brings heavy rainfall, threatens significant flooding in the Houston area
Read full article: Hurricane Beryl brings heavy rainfall, threatens significant flooding in the Houston areaThe National Weather Service issued a life-threatening flash flood warning, urging residents to stay indoors.
Strong winds knock down Buc-ee’s sign in Freeport as Hurricane Beryl moves through Texas coast
Read full article: Strong winds knock down Buc-ee’s sign in Freeport as Hurricane Beryl moves through Texas coastHurricane Beryl made landfall at 4 a.m., unleashing strong winds and heavy rain across Matagorda County, Freeport, and surrounding areas. KPRC 2’s Re’Chelle Turner reports from a Buc-ee’s gas station in Freeport, where the storm's force tore off the station's sign. Meteorologist Caroline Brown warns that the worst is far from over, with storm surges, downpours, and tropical tornadoes still a threat. Residents in Houston, Sugarland, The Woodlands, Liberty, and Katy should brace for winds up to 73 mph and potential widespread power outages. Stay safe and stay informed with KPRC 2’s live updates.
CLICK2PINS | Share photos, videos with KPRC 2 as Tropical Storm Beryl passes through Houston, SE Texas 🌀⛈️
Read full article: CLICK2PINS | Share photos, videos with KPRC 2 as Tropical Storm Beryl passes through Houston, SE Texas 🌀⛈️Hurricane Beryl is hammering southeast Texas Monday morning. KPRC 2 viewers are sending us photos, documenting the intense conditions.
How reporters, photographers plan ahead to stay safe while covering hurricanes
Read full article: How reporters, photographers plan ahead to stay safe while covering hurricanesAs Hurricane Beryl approaches the Texas Coast, communities are preparing for its powerful winds and heavy rains. With expected landfall near Matagorda around 2 a.m. Monday, areas like Galveston, Houston, and Katy will experience significant impact. Our reporter Gage Goulding is on the ground, ensuring you get the latest updates despite the challenging conditions. Stay safe and stay informed.
Houston SPCA moves 18 rescued horses to higher ground ahead of Beryl
Read full article: Houston SPCA moves 18 rescued horses to higher ground ahead of BerylAs Tropical Storm Beryl nears, the Houston SPCA has relocated 18 rescued horses to their Equine Rehabilitation Center for safety. Currently caring for 24 horses, three pigs, 12 chickens, and a peacock, the team is prepared with boats on standby for high-water rescues. "Horses and animals like that really pick up on the weather before it happens," says Equine Manager Linnea Wood. Stay safe and prepare your pets for the storm. 🐴🌧️
All METRO services are suspended until further notice as Hurricane Beryl continues moving through Greater Houston
Read full article: All METRO services are suspended until further notice as Hurricane Beryl continues moving through Greater HoustonMETRO is suspending transportation service ahead of Beryl.
‘Let’s get through this night:’ Houston Mayor John Whitmire says city is ready to weather Beryl
Read full article: ‘Let’s get through this night:’ Houston Mayor John Whitmire says city is ready to weather BerylHouston Mayor John Whitmire will give an update regarding emergency preparedness of the city ahead of Beryl.
Tracking Beryl: Stay ahead of the storm’s impact in the Houston area with these tools from KPRC 2
Read full article: Tracking Beryl: Stay ahead of the storm’s impact in the Houston area with these tools from KPRC 2From weather watches and warnings to hour-by-hour forecasts, road conditions and the preparations you should make at your home or office - here’s how KPRC 2 can help your family stay safe as Beryl closes in on the Houston area.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo says she was on trip as Beryl approaches, says she will be back today
Read full article: Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo says she was on trip as Beryl approaches, says she will be back todayAs Beryl approaches the Texas coast, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said she had left on a pre-planned trip for the July 4th weekend.
Hurricane Beryl is now 65 miles away from Matagorda; Landfall is expected overnight
Read full article: Hurricane Beryl is now 65 miles away from Matagorda; Landfall is expected overnightAs Hurricane Beryl approaches, Chief Meteorologist Anthony Yanez reports that Southeast Texas is already experiencing significant rainfall from the storm’s outer bands.
Fort Bend County officials give ‘emergency situation report’ after Hurricane Beryl
Read full article: Fort Bend County officials give ‘emergency situation report’ after Hurricane BerylFort Bend County Judge KP George, alongside key county officials, will hold a press conference Monday following Hurricane Beryl’s aftermath to give a status report of the county.
Hurricane and Tropical Storm Warnings issued ahead of Beryl’s expected landfall
Read full article: Hurricane and Tropical Storm Warnings issued ahead of Beryl’s expected landfallA Hurricane Warning and Tropical Storm Warning have been issued ahead of Tropical Storm Beryl’s expected landfall on Monday morning.
Texas residents told to expect power outages, flooding as Beryl moves closer to landfall
Read full article: Texas residents told to expect power outages, flooding as Beryl moves closer to landfallTexas officials are telling coastal residents to expect power outages and flooding as Beryl was forecast to regain hurricane strength before making landfall.
Voluntary evacuation order issued for west end of Galveston Island ahead of Beryl
Read full article: Voluntary evacuation order issued for west end of Galveston Island ahead of BerylA voluntary evacuation order has been issued by Galveston Emergency Management Officials for the west end of Galveston Island.
More than 2 million CenterPoint customers have no electricity | Here’s how you can still watch KPRC 2 News
Read full article: More than 2 million CenterPoint customers have no electricity | Here’s how you can still watch KPRC 2 NewsCenterPoint Energy is preparing for Beryl’s impacts as it heads for the Texas coast.
Lake Houston lowering set for Sunday morning ahead of Tropical Storm Beryl
Read full article: Lake Houston lowering set for Sunday morning ahead of Tropical Storm BerylHouston Public Works has announced a temporary lowering of Lake Houston by 12 inches, starting at 4 a.m. on Sunday, July 7, in preparation for Tropical Storm Beryl.
Texas coast braces for looming hit by Beryl, which is expected to regain hurricane strength
Read full article: Texas coast braces for looming hit by Beryl, which is expected to regain hurricane strengthTexas officials are urging coastal residents to brace for a looming hit by Beryl as the storm is expected to regain hurricane strength.
Beryl strengthens into hurricane in Atlantic, forecast to grow into major storm entering Caribbean
Read full article: Beryl strengthens into hurricane in Atlantic, forecast to grow into major storm entering CaribbeanBeryl has grown into a hurricane in the Atlantic and is forecast to strengthen into a major storm as it nears the Caribbean.