NEGRIL, Jamaica — Two couples from O'Fallon, Illinois, turned a terrifying experience into an opportunity.
Lauren Souders contacted 5 On Your Side Wednesday afternoon from the Couples Negril Resort in Negril, Jamaica, while she awaited Category 5 hurricane Beryl.
Souders sent 5 On Your Side a picture of her and her husband along with the other couple they are vacationing with. She described the atmosphere as nice and calm at that time.
"We aren't sure what the cellular service or WIFI will be in a little, but have access as of now," Souders said.
Hours later 5 On Your Side received a video from Souders showing strong winds swaying trees and tossing debris right outside of her resort bedroom window.
The Associated Press reported that seven people have died and 500 people have been placed in shelters, along with significant damage in the southeast Caribbean.
"The Jamaican people have taken such great care of us at Couples Negril. In return, the guests and ourselves have teamed together to assist in clean up. It’s a humbling scene to witness," Souders reported late Thursday morning.
Pictures after the hurricane
Hurricane Beryl weakened as it headed toward Mexico as a Category 3 hurricane but started as a Category 5 hurricane, according to the Associated Press.