HURRICANE ISAIAS AND THE ISLANDS OF THE BAHAMAS

Statement #7 

NASSAU, Bahamas – Hurricane Isaias has weakened to a tropical storm but is expected to re-strengthen to a Category 1 hurricane overnight as it exists The Bahamas. Hurricane warnings remain in effect for the Northwest islands, including Andros, New Providence, Eleuthera, Abaco, Grand Bahama, Bimini and The Berry Islands.

Hurricane Isaias continues to slow slightly and move toward the northwest at about 10 miles per hour. On the forecast track, the center of the storm will move near or over Bimini and well to the west of Grand Bahama by tonight.

Maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 70 miles per hour with higher gusts. Bimini and Grand Bahama Island are experiencing tropical storm conditions expected to subside by Sunday morning as the storm moves away from The Bahamas.   

Initial assessments from the Central and Southeast Bahamas indicate that islands have fared well with minimal damage. Power outages across the islands have been reported, and electricity will be restored as soon as conditions improve. Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) in Nassau remains closed until further notice.

The Bahamas is an archipelago with more than 700 islands and cays, spread over 100,000 square miles; there could be a tropical storm or hurricane warning for parts of the country while other parts remain unaffected.

The Ministry continues to monitor this weather pattern and will provide updates at www.bahamas.com. For further information visit www.nhc.noaa.gov.

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