Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Prime Minister makes final appeal to residents ahead of Hurricane Dorian
#Nassau, August 31, 2019 – Bahamas – In a last-ditch effort to make residents realize the severity of the potential impact of Hurricane Dorian, the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis, Prime Minister, strongly appealed to them evacuate to safer locations.
“I cannot stress enough how important it is for residents in the path of the Hurricane to evacuate and seek safe haven immediately.
“Those who do not evacuate are placing themselves in extreme danger and can expect a catastrophic consequence. Property and material belongings can be replaced. A life cannot.”
This was the Prime Minister’s earnest plea during a press conference at the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA on Saturday, August 31, 2019 at 12 noon.
At the time of this briefing, Hurricane Dorian was described as an extremely dangerous Category 4 storm with winds up to 145 mph, and a “major threat” to the Northwest Bahamas, particularly the Abacos and Grand Bahama.
This was the pictured painted by the Prime Minister, based on predictions by the Bahamas Department of Meteorology.
“A prolonged period of potentially life-threatening storm surge and devastating hurricane-force winds are likely. Heavy rains, capable of life-threatening flash floods, are also expected over portions of The Bahamas.
“Increasing the threat is the projected slow down of the forward movement of Hurricane Dorian, which will increase the risk of additional storm surge in addition to the spring tide that we are currently experiencing.”
Storm surge is expected to reach 12-15 feet. The surge combined with potential wind exposure may result in severe damage to communications and power systems.
The hurricane is expected to impact an estimated 73,000 residents and 21,000 households. Storm surge is expected to reach 12-15 feet. And, the surge combined with potential wind exposure may result in severe damage to communications and power systems.
Evacuations started in Abaco and Grand Bahama from August 30 via ferry boats and aircraft. Shelters were also opened for individuals to take advantage of using them.
“All residents under Hurricane warning area – which includes North Eleuthera, Abaco, Grand Bahama, Bimini, the Berry Islands and New Providence – should listen to the advice given by NEMA and the relevant government agencies and have their hurricane preparations completed today,” the Prime Minister urged.
Residents of Abaco may begin feeling the effects of Hurricane Dorian – tropical storm force winds – by 1am Sunday and strengthening conditions thereafter, according to the Met Department.
The Prime Minister also strongly appealed appeal to residents of the northern cays and the North Abaco mainland to move to safer ground in the south. Plus, residents of the Mud, Pigeon Pea, Farm Road and Sandbank communities are also being urged to seek shelter during the storm.
Approximately 77 residents have already been evacuated from Grand Cay. Evacuations will continue throughout the day. Boats will be making regular stops at cays to collect residents. The airport will close at 3pm.
On Grand Bahama, residents may begin to feel the effects of Hurricane Dorian, specifically tropical storm conditions by 7am Sunday.
The Prime Minister strongly urged “all residents of East End, West End, Sweetings Cay and Waters Cay to wait the storm out in the interior of the island.
Shelters have been activated; including a special needs shelter at Foster Pestina Center at Christ the King Anglican Church. Evacuations will continue throughout the day. Also, Police are monitoring Fishing Hole Road.
Referring to other islands in the Northwest Bahamas such as New Providence, North Eleuthera, Bimini and Berry Islands, the Prime Minister admonished that they should have their preparations already completed.
“These islands may experience Tropical Storm force winds,’ he added, “hurricanes are unpredictable and residents should not take any chances.”
Release: NEMA
Bahamas News
Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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