Shelter Manager Recounts His Experience

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ABACO, BAHAMAS – As we mark the 3rd anniversary of what has been described as the worst Atlantic hurricane in history, we begin a series that follows residents of Abaco who reflect on monster storm Dorian and share where they are now, mentally and physically. One shelter manager recounts his experience and shares his hopes for the future.

Picture over 24 hours of 180 miles per hour winds with gusts peaking at 220 mph. Heavy rain pouring down for days. The sounds of trees snapping, homes collapsing and even boats being tossed around.

For many on the island of Abaco this is something they don’t have to imagine, but rather, sights and sounds they wish to forget.

Sarone Kennedy served as a shelter manager for decades and says what occurred during Hurricane Dorian, not even Hollywood could have written.

Kennedy recalls the shelter being filled with up to 300 people during the first half of the storm. After the passing of the eye, just 100 remained. He says for days, they were forced to share one case of water before the British Royal Navy came in to assist.

In December of 2020, the Free National Movement broke ground for a hurricane shelter and community center to be built in Central Pines. 

Some three years later, he says the island is at a crucial point, but unfortunately, he does not see enough progress.

He adds that there has been a lot of talk surrounding providing psyco-social support to survivors, but still more must be done. 

Despite the life-altering events of Hurricane Dorian and the responsibility he bore for hundreds of lives, Kennedy says he absolutely would do it again, and in fact, has already volunteered his services once again.