Last Minute Shopping Triggered By Storm Leaves Grocery Stores Packed

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EXUMA, BAHAMAS – The Exumas and Ragged Island are now feeling the effects of Hurricane Melissa, as the storm, downgraded to a Category Two system, makes its way across the southeast and central Bahamas with strong winds and heavy rain.

Melissa, which tore through Jamaica earlier this week as a record-breaking Category Five hurricane, continues to bring widespread gusts and rough seas to portions of The Bahamas.

Joshua Williams, reporting from Exuma, said light rain began falling early this morning as winds steadily picked up speed.

“From as early as this morning, light rain fell across the island as winds picked up,” Williams reported. “By midday, trees were swaying, branches were falling into the road, and waves were crashing violently against the shore.”

Despite worsening weather conditions, many residents were seen making last-minute preparations, forming long lines at local grocery stores.

Ron Kemp, owner of Prime Island Meats, said his team has been working nonstop to help residents stock up on essentials.

“If we can get everybody served in time, that’s the goal, hurricanes are serious,” Kemp said.

Truck driver Vincent Johnson said he was rushing to collect supplies after a shipment arrived.

“The boat came in, and everyone’s trying to get their hands on everything,” he said.

At Smitty’s Convenience Store, shelves and freezers were nearly empty as shoppers picked up last-minute supplies. There, Deputy Chief Councillor Monique Molly was gathering provisions for the island’s command center.

“If anyone needs help with supplies for their roof or safety, we’re making sure we’re ready to assist,” Molly said.

Across the island, Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) crews were also spotted repairing power lines, as electricity flickered on and off throughout the day.

But according to Chief Councillor Glen Davis, utility issues weren’t the only concern.

“We have a downed power line that caught fire, and we’re investigating to see if that road needs to be closed,” Davis said, urging residents to remain cautious.

Officials say emergency teams, including local government agencies and the Disaster Risk Management Authority (DRM), are monitoring the situation closely to ensure residents remain safe as Hurricane Melissa continues its path through the Bahamas.