State Minister, Disaster Risk Manager Leon Lundy

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas -- Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister, the Hon. Leon Lundy says the government is fully prepared to support every community throughout the archipelago, as officials continue close monitoring of Hurricane Milton’s approach to the west coast of Florida. 

In a live televised address Tuesday evening, State Minister Lundy, whose portfolio includes the Disaster Risk Management Authority (DRM Authority), said the agency has been coordinating efforts to decentralise disaster preparedness across the islands, ensuring that each area can focus on its specific needs and vulnerabilities.

He emphasised that every island in The Bahamas is unique in its geography, population distribution, and risk factors, and therefore requires tailored support.   “…We are addressing each situation accordingly. Some islands may request resources for food and non-perishable supplies. Others need sandbags to guard against flooding, while still others are focusing on securing fuel for their generators to ensure power during potential outages. In this vein, we've been closely engaging with the Family Island Administrators and representatives over the past few days. 

"Yesterday afternoon, we held a critical meeting to assess and address the most urgent needs. One significant request across many islands was for tarps to secure homes against potential roof damage. I'm happy to report that the distribution of tarps have already begun in several communities, and those that have not yet received them will be receiving them first thing in the morning,” he said, noting that this is part of the government’s proactive approach to ensuring that no home goes unprotected as residents brace for effects from Hurricane Milton. 

“At the heart of our efforts is a commitment to ensuring that resources are not only provided but are distributed effectively.  We have teams on the ground working in real time to get these critical supplies to where they are most needed. The Disaster Risk Management Authority is coordinating with local officials, the Defence Force and Police Force and volunteers across the country.  This type of collaboration is what will allow us to respond to Hurricane Milton swiftly and effectively, should there be any unforeseen impacts once the storm approaches,” he said.

Milton is making its way toward the western coast of Florida as a powerful Category 5 hurricane. On its current trajectory, landfall for The Bahamas is not anticipated, however the islands of the northern Bahamas are under a Tropical Storm Warning as local forecasters say tropical storm conditions are likely.  Residents could begin feeling those conditions by Wednesday afternoon and into Friday, with the worst of those conditions happening on Thursday.  By that time though, Milton is expected to be a low level Category 1 hurricane. 

Still Minister Lundy urged residents to take the threat seriously and act now.

He said it is important to remember that preparedness begins at home. “Gather your emergency supplies, including water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries and any medications that you may need for the next few days. Check your surroundings, secure any loose items in your yard, and make sure your homes are as secure as possible.  Additionally, if you are living in a low lying or flood prone area, we encourage you to make preparations to evacuate to a safer location, if needed. The shelters will be opened if the need arises and they are well equipped with the necessary resources. Please ensure you stay tuned to all advisories coming from the Met Office, the DRM Authority and other official sources.

"Your safety is our top priority. The government is doing everything in its power to mitigate risks and provide support. But we need you to do your part. Take every precaution as Hurricane Milton approaches,” he said.

He also called on the community to look out for one another. “Community solidarity is vital during times like this. We ask that you also check in on your neighbours, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, making sure that they too have what they need. This is a time when coming together as a community can make all the difference,” he said.

Closing out his remarks, Minister Lundy urged residents to stay vigilant and monitor updates from official sources. “Your safety is our top priority. The government is doing everything in its power to mitigate risks, but we need you to do your part.  Please take every precaution as Hurricane Milton approaches.”