Free | 23/6
Posted: 5/28/2012
Tropical Storm Beryl is close to making landfall in the southeastern U.S. as coastal areas are already starting to feel the impact of heavy rains and strong winds.The National Hurricane Center in Miami reported late Sunday that Beryl was 35 miles east of Jacksonville, Fla., and 75 miles (121 kilometers) south-southeast of Brunswick, Ga. Forecasters said the storm is moving west at 7 mph (11 kph) and its center should cross the coast over the next few hours.Beryl had maximum sustained winds of 70 mph (113 kph) with higher gusts. Forecasters said the system should begin to weaken as it moves inland and becomes a tropical depression.Tropical storm warnings are in effect for the entire Georgia coastline, as well as parts of Florida and South Carolina.THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.Tropical Storm Beryl was wrecking some Memorial Day weekend plans on Sunday, causing shoreline campers to pack up and head inland and leading to the cancellation of some events as the storm approached the southeastern U.S.Beryl was still well offshore, but officials in Georgia and Florida were bracing for drenching rains and driving winds.The National Hurricane Center in Miami said Sunday evening that Beryl was approaching hurricane strength and was expected to make landfall late Sunday or early Monday.As of 8 p.m., Beryl had maximum sustained winds of 70 mph (113 kph), just below hurricane-strength, which is 75 mph. It was not expected to strengthen much more, and should weaken after making landfall. The hurricane center said the Jacksonville pier was already reporting winds of 50 mph (80 kph). Beryl was moving westward at 10 mph (16 kph).Florida Gov. Rick Scott urged Florida residents in the affected areas to 'stay alert and aware.''Tropical Storm Beryl is expected to bring heavy rain and winds, and it is vital to continue to monitor local news reports and listen to the advice of local emergency managem