The Bahamas

The Bahamas experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

Medical facilities can’t handle major emergencies. Be prepared to evacuate at short notice. Keep your travel documents up to date.

To protect yourself in case of a natural disaster:

• monitor local media, local authorities and other sources, such as the National Emergency Management Agency
• keep your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• contact your tour operator, hotel or airline

Get local advice before entering areas after a natural disaster.

Hurricanes and severe weather

In September 2019, Hurricane Dorian caused severe damage to the Abaco Islands and Grand Bahama. The following essential services are disrupted:

• shelter
• food
• water
• medical supplies
• power and communication services.

The ports and airports on these islands are closed. Follow the advice of local authorities.

The hurricane season in The Bahamas is from June to November. Tropical storms and hurricanes can also happen in other months. Landslides, mudslides and flooding can occur.

The direction and strength of hurricanes can change suddenly.

If you’re travelling to the Bahamas during hurricane season, check if severe weather has affected tourist services.

If there’s a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights can be delayed or suspended
• available flights might fill quickly
• adequate shelter might not be available

Severe weather may also affect:

• access to ports
• road travel
• essential services, such as water, electricity and communication systems

If a hurricane is approaching:

• know your hotel or cruise ship’s evacuation plan
• identify your local shelter
• monitor local media and the US National Hurricane Center
• follow the advice of local authorities

If you’re travelling during the hurricane season or following a natural disaster, contact:

• your tour operator to check if tourist services at your planned destination have been affected
• your airline for the latest flight information

More information:

Tsunamis

Tsunamis can happen in The Bahamas.

A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a tremor or earthquake. Be alert to warnings.

To receive tsunami alerts, register with the Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination System.

If you’re near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don’t wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government