Bahamas: Hurricane warning for southwest islands from Sep. 20

Event

Hurricane Maria, a Category 4 hurricane (scale of 1 to 5), is moving over Puerto Rico as of Wednesday, September 20, and is forecast to continue moving towards the southeastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos islands. As of 08:00 (local time) Maria had maximum sustained winds of 240 km/h (150 mph) and was moving northwest at a speed of 17 km/h (10 mph). A hurricane warning is in effect for the southeastern Bahamas as well as the nearby Turks and Caicos islands.

According to current predictions, Maria will pass to the east of the Bahamas late on Thursday, September 21, or Friday, September 22, as a major hurricane (level 3-5). The storm is expected to bring 5-10 cm (2-4 in) of rain across the islands. Damaging winds and storm surges will also impact the area; swells along the coast will likely cause life-threatening surf. Flooding is also possible, along with landslides in hilly areas. 

Power outages, water cuts, telecommunication issues, and transportation disruptions are possible during and following the storm’s passage.

Context

Much of the region is still recovering from Hurricane Irma, a Category 5 storm that struck the region earlier in September. Irma caused mass destruction in widespread areas, including Saint Martin/Sint Maarten, Saint Barthélemy, Cuba, and the Florida Keys.

Advice

Individuals present in the Bahamas are advised to keep abreast of weather alerts, confirm travel reservations, avoid coastal areas (risk of flooding), and adhere to all advice issued by the local authorities.

In the event of flooding, remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult. Finally, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, wear boots and try to avoid any contact with the water. All items having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and foodstuffs discarded.