Prince William and Kate Middleton have made a private donation to support victims of Hurricane Beryl, after the powerful storm swept through the Caribbean.
The royals are “closely” following the impact of the storm, a Kensington Palace spokesperson confirmed to Harper’s Bazaar. So far, the hurricane has peaked at category five winds of more than 165 miles per hour, causing significant damage in the southeast Caribbean and killing at least seven people.
King Charles also made a “substantial” charitable donation to the ongoing relief efforts, and according to the Palace, has asked to be kept closely informed of the developing situation. He hopes to engage with regional leaders directly in the coming days to offer his support and sympathies, a Kensington Palace spokesperson confirmed.
“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,” King Charles said in an official statement.
“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. 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.”
While it’s unclear how much they donated, the Prince and Princess of Wales visited the impacted area in 2022 as part of a royal tour to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. During their eight day tour, they traveled to Belize, Jamaica, and the Bahamas, though they faced criticism about British colonialism.
As well as their 2022 visit, the couple and their children have often visited Mustique over the years. The island, which has been owned by the royal family for over 50 years, is a favorite for their family vacations.
