Hurricanes of The Bahamas - past, present and future
By: Dennis A. Dames
From June's beginning to November's end, the time of energized winds and their potential harm to human life and private property becomes a national and regional concern. Hurricanes have proven deadly and damaging throughout the region over the years, and The Bahamas too- has had its share of casualties and other related costs.
Generally, the season of intense and violent winds - with accompanying heavy rainfall and dangerous storm surge - has been a sparing visitor to the islands. In recent memory, an attitude of harmful hurricane curiosity, excitement and plain casualness has spread like wild fire throughout the Bahamian communities. Islanders for the most part enjoy hurricanes, because they can cause unceremonious holidays.
Information relating to hurricane watches and warnings are readily available nowadays. In the age of satellite technology, the movements of any system in and toward the region are as accessible as fry fish or chicken, but the deadly mentality: 'it's just another passing storm', dilutes the purpose of having crucial data available to ensure that lives are saved and property secured in a timely manner.
Education and the campaign of hurricane preparedness are ongoing during the storm season, and the islands' population for the most part is well informed. Each year- the possibility of a major storm hitting The Bahamas increases, but that doesn't stop the love and appreciation of a treasured island life with its rich existence of God's sunshine, crystal clear and multi colored seawaters, and the precious ocean sands of varied shades.
Hurricane readiness is the goal of all countries in the storm regions. In The Bahamas like elsewhere in the hurricane zones, 'Be prepared', is the calling cry. Taking heed to those words is ceaselessly the wise thing to do.
Copyright 2002,2003,2004,2005,2006-2024 Dennis Arthur Dames
Nassau, The Bahamas
