Bahamas, July 31, 2017 – Grand Bahama – Grand Bahama residents are today begged to rush storm preparations or to evacuate residences which may not be able to stand up in the rains and winds of the remnants of Emily. Tropical Storm Emily formed this morning over West Florida and already there is a state of emergency in effect for areas like Tampa Bay.
Grand Bahama Minister, Kwasi Thompson a short while ago led a press conference in Freeport to issue warning to the storm weary island. “It is not anticipated that there will be a direct hit of the storm on Grand Bahama but there will be some bad weather…. it will be a very heavy rain event.”
Minister Thompson said the Office of the PM in Grand Bahama with NEMA and other agencies are monitoring the storm. Many homes are still in disrepair following the pounding by Hurricane Matthew last October.
Meteorologist, Kirk James said it is the size of the storm system with the rain and flooding which makes officials most concerned. The heavy rainfall will greatly diminish visibility, waterspout activity remains heightened, boaters and mariners are cautioned and thunderstorm activity is expected.
At this hour, Tropical Storm Emily is 35mls WSW of Tampa, Fl with 45mph winds. TS Emily is expected to be downgraded tonight and the real concern is the rain event Emily is expected to be.
Up to an 1 1/2 inches of rain is forecast for Grand Bahama and storm shelters information will come later today. Transportation is being considered for those who may not be able to get to shelters.
Tammi Mitchell, Deputy Co-chair of the Disaster Consultative Committee and NEMA supplies officer in Freeport recommended that residents remain tuned in to local media; these she said will have Grand Bahama specific info for residents. Mitchell’s input included shelter mobilisation information.
Pakesia Edgecombe, MP for West End and Bimini advised residents to be their brothers’ keepers… to check on those within communities who are most vulnerable.
Even now construction is happening at the Fishing Hole Road for a bridge to end flood concerns and aide continues for residents with property damage from Matthew. August is the start of the more vigorous part of storm season; the Atlantic Hurricane season lasts until Nov 30.
#MagneticMediaNews
#stormbatteredGrandBahama
