Bahamas faces climate extremes: Heat index soars over 112°F amid hailstorms

Bahamas: The Bahamas is currently experiencing the severe impacts of continuous climate change with some parts of the island experiencing a heat index above 112-degree F while others are receiving significant hail showers. 

The Department of Meteorology issued a heat advisory which was in effect from 12 pm onwards on Sunday. The heat advisory will remain in effect for the entire Bahamas until Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

The Met Office advised residents in Grand Bahama, Bimini and Abaco to discourage their outdoor activities and asked the individuals to stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces. 

On the other hand, a severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect for the Berry Islands along with its adjacent Waters and Cays. Around 9:10 pm on Sunday, lightning detection, radar and satellite imagery showed a cluster of showers and thunderstorms moving across the warning areas and towards the watch areas. 

According to the Met Office, the Heat Index was reported to be above 112 F in Grand Bahama, Abaco and Bimini and between 102 F and 111 F elsewhere on Sunday. 

The Office advised the citizens to stay safe from the impacts of climate change and said, “Hydration is crucial, and special attention should be given to vulnerable populations such as children, the older people, and those with certain medical conditions. For residents and visitors of the remaining islands: People are advised to limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and seek shade or air conditioning, when possible.”

Meantime, as the Met Department advised residents to stay indoors, the Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) informed the general public that the company has reached a peak generating capacity in New Providence and that load is shedding.

The BPL said that rotations have commenced and will continue until load demand decline or BPL can return one of its primary units to service which was impacted due to the heavy bush fire on the Coral Harbour Road last week. 

The BPL’s team at the Clifton Pier Power Station continue to work to complete repairs on the primary unit which generates around 25MW of power. Without that unit being operable, BPL will continue to face a shortfall during peak hours, especially between midday and midnight. 

At present, the following areas in the Bahamas are impacted including parts of Golden Gates, Carmichael Rd, Silver Gates, Shrimp Road, Serenity, Lyford Cay, Mount Pleasant Village, Joe Farrington Road and Yamacraw.