31 Aug 2019 | 12:56 AM UTC
Bahamas: Hurricane Warning issued for northwestern islands August 30 /update 1
A Hurricane Warning is in effect for northwest Bahamas as of August 30; heavy rain, damaging winds, and life-threatening conditions possible through September 2
Event
A Hurricane Warning is in effect for northwestern Bahamas, excluding Andros Island, as of 20:00 (local time) on Friday, August 30. Hurricane Dorian is continuing to strengthen as it moves towards the islands and may hit the region as either a Category 3 or Category 4 storm on Sunday, September 1. According to local media reports, evacuation orders have been issued for parts of the Abaco and Grand Bahama islands. Residents are being urged to move inland or leave for another island if possible. Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) in Freeport will close at 22:00 on Friday and reopen at 06:00 on Tuesday, September 2. Ferry service between the northwestern islands has also been suspended as of Friday afternoon as a precaution. Flight operations are running as normal at Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NSA), but airport officials warned that disruptions are possible as the hurricane approaches. Further transportation disruptions are possible in the coming days as Dorian moves through the region.
As of 20:00 on Friday, Hurricane Dorian - a Category 4 storm on the Saffir-Simpson scale - is located approximately 25.3°N 71.0°W (map here) with maximum sustained winds of 215 kph (130 mph). Dorian is moving west-northwest at 17 kph (10 mph). Tropical storm winds are forecast to start effecting the Bahamas beginning on the night of Saturday, August 31. A life-threatening storm surge is expected to bring water levels as high as 3-5 m (10-15 ft) above normal tide levels to northwestern coastal areas. Rainfall totals between 25-38 cm (10-15 in), and up to 51 cm (20 in) in isolated areas, are also forecast.
Significant flooding, damaging winds, and other life-threatening conditions are forecast in the coming days. Associated transportation, business, and power disruptions are also possible.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.
