Bahamas: Hurricane Dorian to impact Grand Bahama, Great Abaco islands Aug. 31-Sep. 1

Event

Hurricane Dorian is forecast to pass near or over Grand Bahama and Great Abaco islands on Saturday evening (local time), August 31, into Sunday morning, September 1, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. According to the US National Hurricane Center, Dorian is forecast to reach Category 4 strength winds as it approaches The Bahamas late on Saturday into the early morning hours of Sunday. The storm is forecast to bring 8-13 cm (3-5 in) of rainfall, with up to 18 cm (7 in) in isolated areas, into early next week. 

As of Thursday, August 29, at 17:00, Dorian - a Category 1 storm on the Saffir-Simpson scale - is located approximately 22.5°N 67.7°W (map here) with maximum sustained winds of 140 kph (85 mph). Transportation and business disruptions, as well as power outages, are anticipated in areas forecast to be affected by Dorian over the coming days. Flight disruptions at Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO), Marsh Harbour (MHH), Treasure Cay Airport (TCB), and Nassau (NAS) airports cannot be ruled out. 

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, 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.