Hurricanes of The Bahamas: past, present and future.
By: Dennis A. Dames
E-mail: dpoetry2002@yahoo.com
Web: Dennis Dames Domain
A yearly phenomenon of forceful winds; originating from the west coast of Africa, to the North Atlantic ocean, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. The Bahamas is well situated in the hurricane zones mentioned, and every resident of the islands spend half of his or her lifetime in the hurricane season.
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 violent winds and sometimes accompanying heavy rains- has been a sparing visitor to the islands. In recent memory, an attitude of 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 seasons, and the island’s 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 an island life and the 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 everywhere else, “Be prepared”, is the calling cry. Taking heed to those words is ceaselessly the wise thing to do.
Copyright ©2002,2003,2004,2005,2006 Dennis Arthur Dames
Email: dpoetry2002@yahoo.com