GRAND BAHAMA, The Bahamas -- As Hurricane Milton, a powerful category 5 storm, continues on its path towards the west coast of Florida, John H.W. Pinder, Member of Parliament for Central and South Abaco and Parliamentary Secretary within the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation (MOTIA), is assuring residents that comprehensive preparations are underway.

Taking to his Facebook page, Pinder informed followers and other viewers that meetings with the Abaco Disaster Committee and the national Disaster Risk Management Authority (DRM Authority) have been held to ensure all departments are ready to respond swiftly, if necessary.

At this time, it is not anticipated that hurricane Milton will directly impact The Bahamas, however forecasters with the Bahamas Department of Meteorology have issued a Tropical Storm Warning for the northern Bahamas as tropical storm conditions including winds of 25-35 mph, gusting up to 45mph, and elevated sea levels, are likely. Localised flooding in some low lying and flood prone areas is expected as well. Tornadic activity is possible. Milton is expected to be downgraded to a low level category 1 hurricane by the time its outer bands reach the northern Bahamas.

Incident Command Centers in Abaco, like others throughout the northern Bahamas, have been activated to monitor ongoing developments in real time. While the hurricane is not expected to directly affect The Bahamas, residents are urged to remain vigilant and complete any remaining hurricane preparations.

“I encourage all Abaconians to take this threat seriously. Please monitor updates from the Bahamas Department of Meteorology, as the storm’s predicted path may change,” said Pinder in his Facebook post. “Help your neighbours,” he encouraged, “especially those who may be elderly, disabled, or less fortunate, and ensure everyone is prepared.”

Pinder also reminded residents that current weather is being impacted by a low-pressure system, and schools in the Northern Bahamas have been closed as a precaution. He further assured them that further updates will be provided as weather conditions evolve.
“I stand with my fellow Abaconians in prayer for safety, and I remain on the ground, working closely with local and national authorities to ensure we are fully prepared,” said Pinder.