Currents News Staff
Hurricane Dorian wreaked havoc on the Bahamas for over 24 hours, swirling in place, causing massive flooding, damage, and with some reported fatalities. While the strength of the storm has been downgraded, it is still a major hurricane, and authorities are warning residents along the Florida coast to expect dangerous weather conditions.
As of September 3, a storm surge of four to seven and feet is expected. Mandatory evacuation orders are in place for the barrier islands, with some 700 people in shelters.
“Even if it stays off the coast, of four to seven feet of storm surge. I mean, that is deadly,” said Sen. Rick Scott from Florida.
Dorian has shown its potential for massive destruction after pounding the Bahamas for more than 24 hours, leaving buildings in ruin and residents without homes.
“Basically, just debris everywhere. Down stairs everything is completely destroyed. Wiped out,” said Kellie Mackey, a resident of the Bahamas.
Some families have lost loved ones.
“When we came across our neighbor’s house, they told us that they passed away. But we’re not certain. The home isn’t there anymore. We don’t know,” said resident Sharon Rolle.
The storm is expected to brush along Florida’s east coast before heading north, bringing the potential for significant damage and life-threatening storm surge to Georgia and the Carolinas.
“Because this storm is anticipated to pick up the speed, time is running out to get ready,” said North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper.
For now, residents in Florida have done all they can do to prepare. Some have evacuated and others are hunkering down and waiting it out.
“A lot of people left Friday, Saturday and Sunday. So, the ones that are sheltering in place, they know the risk. We’re all in this together,” said Mayor Linda Hudson of Fort Pierce, Florida.