Bahamas: Hurricane Dorian death toll rises to five September 2 /update 6

Event

Bahamian Prime Minister Hubert Minnis has confirmed at least five people have died on the Abaco Islands due to Hurricane Dorian, as well as 21 injured as of Monday, September 2. US Coast Guard crews are currently deployed in Abaco but further rescue and recovery teams are unable to deploy until storm conditions improve. Significant damages have been reported in the region, with an estimated 13,000 homes being damaged or destroyed. Widespread flooding is impacting Abaco and Grand Bahama Island, along with damaging winds. Residents are being advised to remain sheltered in place through Monday night until conditions improve.

The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) indicated at 21:00 on September 2, that Dorian was stationary and located at 26.8°N 78.4°W (map here), about 170 km (105 mi) east of West Palm Beach (Florida). Dorian has maximum sustained winds of 230 kph (140 mph) and may bring 30-60 cm (12-24 in) of rainfall in some areas. The NHC forecast hurricane conditions to continue over Grand Bahama Island through Tuesday, before passing through parts of Florida.

Associated flooding, power outages, and disruptions to transportation and business services are expected to continue in the coming hours and days.

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.