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Hurricane Irma batters Bahamas as Florida evacuates – latest updates Hurricane Irma batters Bahamas as Florida evacuates – latest updates
(35 minutes later)
1.02pm BST
13:02
Irma remains an extremely dangerous category four hurricane, but it has slightly weakened again, according to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center.
Here are key points from the latest bulletin:
Irma now has sustained windspeeds of 150mph (down from 155mph earlier today and 185mph on Thursday) as it heads across the Bahamas, 450 miles south-east of Florida.
Hurricane and storm warnings for Haiti have been lifted.
Storm surge warnings and watches are in place for large parts of southern Florida, and the Florida Keys, the southeastern, central and northeastern Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos Islands, and four Cuban provinces
A Hurricane Watch is in effect for the Florida coast north of Jupiter Inlet to Sebastian Inlet and north of Bonita Beach to Anna Maria Island; and the Cuban provinces of Guantanamo, Holguin, Las Tunas and Matanzas. “Persons located within these areas should take all necessary actions to protect life and property from rising water and the potential for other dangerous conditions,” it says.
On the forecast track, the eye of Irma should move near the north coast of Cuba and the central Bahamas today and Saturday, and be near the Florida Keys and the southern Florida Peninsula on Sunday morning.
The US states of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina have been warned of “life-threatening flash floods and mudslides” from next Tuesday.
Hurricane #Irma Advisory 37A: Now available on the NHC website. https://t.co/VqHn0uj6EM
12.34pm BST
12:34
Peter Walker
Theresa May is to chair a meeting of the government’s Cobra emergency committee this afternoon, Downing Street has said, and will then decide what more action the government should take over relief efforts.
There was also a Cobra meeting about Irma on Thursday, though that was chaired by the defence secretary, Michael Fallon.
May’s spokeswoman said: “She’s being kept up to date constantly by officials at Downing Street, and will chair the Cobra meeting later.”
The international development secretary, Priti Patel, is visiting an aid centre in Gloucestershire where supplies are being prepared to be sent to HMS Ocean, which has been diverted from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean to help aid efforts.
12.27pm BST12.27pm BST
12:2712:27
Nine people have been killed and at least seven are missing after Irma hit France’s Caribbean islands of Saint Martin and Saint Barthélemy, the French interior minister Gerard Collomb has said. A further 112 people are confirmed to have been injured, and all those tolls could rise, Collomb added. Death toll increases to 18
Nine people have been killed and at least seven are missing after Irma hit France’s Caribbean islands of Saint Martin and Saint Barthélemy, the French interior minister has said. A further 112 people are confirmed to have been injured, and all those tolls could rise, Gérard Collomb added.
Collomb’s statement raises the overall confirmed death toll to 18.
Updated
at 12.34pm BST
12.11pm BST12.11pm BST
12:1112:11
The Department for International Development has sent through a breakdown of the help arriving and on it way to the Caribbean after the UK was criticised for its slow response. It said:The Department for International Development has sent through a breakdown of the help arriving and on it way to the Caribbean after the UK was criticised for its slow response. It said:
UK aid is on the ground from Mounts Bay. Shelter kits, tin sheets and plywood to help with response and reconstruction in Anguilla.UK aid is on the ground from Mounts Bay. Shelter kits, tin sheets and plywood to help with response and reconstruction in Anguilla.
More going to British Virgin Islands from Mounts BayMore going to British Virgin Islands from Mounts Bay
DFID are sending shelter kits providing immediate relief to people who have seen their homes destroyed and we arranging flights carrying further urgently needed relief supplies.DFID are sending shelter kits providing immediate relief to people who have seen their homes destroyed and we arranging flights carrying further urgently needed relief supplies.
A team of British humanitarian experts were on the ground in advance of the hurricane and they are working with the authorities to direct the humanitarian response.A team of British humanitarian experts were on the ground in advance of the hurricane and they are working with the authorities to direct the humanitarian response.
The UK was the first to arrive at Anguilla and DFID is doubling its field presence to get even more help to the people most in need.The UK was the first to arrive at Anguilla and DFID is doubling its field presence to get even more help to the people most in need.
C17 flight to Barbados – has left Brize Norton. As well as 50 troops there is humanitarian aid (such as shelters,). More aid planned to go on later flights.C17 flight to Barbados – has left Brize Norton. As well as 50 troops there is humanitarian aid (such as shelters,). More aid planned to go on later flights.
Today three trucks will be at the DFID Disaster Response Centre at Kemble Airfield, Gloucestershire to take humanitarian aid to meet HMS Ocean.Today three trucks will be at the DFID Disaster Response Centre at Kemble Airfield, Gloucestershire to take humanitarian aid to meet HMS Ocean.
These trucks will take 10,000 UK aid buckets and 5,000 UK aid solar lanterns.These trucks will take 10,000 UK aid buckets and 5,000 UK aid solar lanterns.
The UK has already sent emergency UK aid relief supplies including 200 shelter kits, each able to support a family of five, providing immediate relief to 1,000 people who have lost their homes.The UK has already sent emergency UK aid relief supplies including 200 shelter kits, each able to support a family of five, providing immediate relief to 1,000 people who have lost their homes.
Former UN humanitarian chief Baroness Amos said it was felt the UK “did not respond” quickly enough.Former UN humanitarian chief Baroness Amos said it was felt the UK “did not respond” quickly enough.
She told the BBC: “It’s always the people on the ground who respond first. They are looking to their national governments but they are also looking outside for as much help to come as quickly as possible.She told the BBC: “It’s always the people on the ground who respond first. They are looking to their national governments but they are also looking outside for as much help to come as quickly as possible.
“We are now a couple of days in and I think people are feeling Britain did not respond quickly enough given we know that it is hurricane season.”“We are now a couple of days in and I think people are feeling Britain did not respond quickly enough given we know that it is hurricane season.”
People in British Overseas Territories feel UK has not responded quickly enough to #Irma2017 ex-UN/ex-minister @ValerieAmos tells #BBCNews pic.twitter.com/EnfsDus42OPeople in British Overseas Territories feel UK has not responded quickly enough to #Irma2017 ex-UN/ex-minister @ValerieAmos tells #BBCNews pic.twitter.com/EnfsDus42O
11.59am BST11.59am BST
11:5911:59
First UK aid arrivesFirst UK aid arrives
The first UK aid drops have been made by helicopter to the British island of Anguilla as more aid is on the way to the British Virgin Islands, according to the latest updates from the Department for International Developments.The first UK aid drops have been made by helicopter to the British island of Anguilla as more aid is on the way to the British Virgin Islands, according to the latest updates from the Department for International Developments.
#UKaid shelter kits delivered to British island of Anguilla by @RoyalNavy #Irma https://t.co/UcYowRG7Qw#UKaid shelter kits delivered to British island of Anguilla by @RoyalNavy #Irma https://t.co/UcYowRG7Qw
#UKaid is on the ground from Mounts Bay - shelter kits to help with #Irma response in Anguilla. More going to British Virgin Islands. pic.twitter.com/SAI6fxrBCf#UKaid is on the ground from Mounts Bay - shelter kits to help with #Irma response in Anguilla. More going to British Virgin Islands. pic.twitter.com/SAI6fxrBCf
Meanwhile, Downing Street has told reporters that Theresa May is to chair a meeting of the government’s emergency committee Cobra to discuss the response to Irma. The first Cobra meeting about Irma was held on Thursday, and was chaired by Michael Fallon, the defence secretary.Meanwhile, Downing Street has told reporters that Theresa May is to chair a meeting of the government’s emergency committee Cobra to discuss the response to Irma. The first Cobra meeting about Irma was held on Thursday, and was chaired by Michael Fallon, the defence secretary.
NEW; PM to chair #cobr meeting on #Irma this pm. Spokesman insists govt been swift in responding to British Virgin Island's call for helpNEW; PM to chair #cobr meeting on #Irma this pm. Spokesman insists govt been swift in responding to British Virgin Island's call for help
11.50am BST11.50am BST
11:5011:50
What we know so farWhat we know so far
Hurricane Irma remains an “extremely dangerous” hurricane, but it has been downgraded from category 5 to 4 with slightly decreased wind speeds of 155mph (250kph), as it ploughs over the Bahamas, north-east of Cuba.Hurricane Irma remains an “extremely dangerous” hurricane, but it has been downgraded from category 5 to 4 with slightly decreased wind speeds of 155mph (250kph), as it ploughs over the Bahamas, north-east of Cuba.
Captain Stephen Russell, of the Bahamas national emergency management agency, said he fears for hundreds of islanders who ignored evacuation orders. “The destructive force of a 25ft surge: that is our greatest concern. It can really cause catastrophic results,” he said.Captain Stephen Russell, of the Bahamas national emergency management agency, said he fears for hundreds of islanders who ignored evacuation orders. “The destructive force of a 25ft surge: that is our greatest concern. It can really cause catastrophic results,” he said.
Two other hurricanes in the region, Jose and Katia, have gained strength. Jose, now has sustained wind speeds of 125mp. In the coming days it is forecast to pass near the same Leeward Islands that were battered by Irma.Two other hurricanes in the region, Jose and Katia, have gained strength. Jose, now has sustained wind speeds of 125mp. In the coming days it is forecast to pass near the same Leeward Islands that were battered by Irma.
A full-scale hurricane warning is in place for south Florida and mass evacuations have been ordered before Irma is expected to make landfall on Saturday.A full-scale hurricane warning is in place for south Florida and mass evacuations have been ordered before Irma is expected to make landfall on Saturday.
Cuba is evacuating tourists from coastal resorts and warning residents to move inland.Cuba is evacuating tourists from coastal resorts and warning residents to move inland.
On Thursday night Irma crossed north of Haiti, causing less damage than had been feared in the beleaguered country. There were reports of some injuries and damage to buildings, but not widespread devastation.On Thursday night Irma crossed north of Haiti, causing less damage than had been feared in the beleaguered country. There were reports of some injuries and damage to buildings, but not widespread devastation.
The hurricane also pummelled the Turks and Caicos Islands, where power failed and the governor, John Freeman, warned residents: “Hunker down, stay where you are … Nobody can get to you – people are, for a little while, on their own.”The hurricane also pummelled the Turks and Caicos Islands, where power failed and the governor, John Freeman, warned residents: “Hunker down, stay where you are … Nobody can get to you – people are, for a little while, on their own.”
Across the Caribbean, at least 13 people are confirmed to have died in the storm: an infant on Barbuda, one person in Anguilla, three people in Puerto Rico, four in the US Virgin Islands, and four in the French territory of St Martin.Lonnie Soury, a spokesman for the US Virgin Islands, said the toll was expected to rise.Across the Caribbean, at least 13 people are confirmed to have died in the storm: an infant on Barbuda, one person in Anguilla, three people in Puerto Rico, four in the US Virgin Islands, and four in the French territory of St Martin.Lonnie Soury, a spokesman for the US Virgin Islands, said the toll was expected to rise.
A state of emergency has declared on the British Virgin Islands amid unconfirmed reports of casualties. Roads are closes and communication is patchy.A state of emergency has declared on the British Virgin Islands amid unconfirmed reports of casualties. Roads are closes and communication is patchy.
The first aid flight has reached the Franco-Dutch island of St Martin, after Dutch troops cleared the runway in St Maarten. Netherlands prime minister Mark Rutte said there had been enormous destruction and upheaval including serious looting.The first aid flight has reached the Franco-Dutch island of St Martin, after Dutch troops cleared the runway in St Maarten. Netherlands prime minister Mark Rutte said there had been enormous destruction and upheaval including serious looting.
The UK and France have also mobilised personnel and aid for their overseas territories that were caught in the onslaught.The UK and France have also mobilised personnel and aid for their overseas territories that were caught in the onslaught.
After complaints that the British government’s response has been slow, ministers authorised £32m in emergency aid and dispatched a military task group. HMS Ocean – currently in the Mediterranean – will be deployed but will take 10-14 days to reach the Caribbean.After complaints that the British government’s response has been slow, ministers authorised £32m in emergency aid and dispatched a military task group. HMS Ocean – currently in the Mediterranean – will be deployed but will take 10-14 days to reach the Caribbean.
A voluntary evacuation began from the tiny island of Barbuda – where upwards of 90% of homes were destroyed – to its larger sister island of Antigua, with the prospect of Hurricane Jose, a category 3 storm, striking this weekend.A voluntary evacuation began from the tiny island of Barbuda – where upwards of 90% of homes were destroyed – to its larger sister island of Antigua, with the prospect of Hurricane Jose, a category 3 storm, striking this weekend.
11.18am BST11.18am BST
11:1811:18
Terrorist suspects being held at the US naval base in Guantanamo Bay on Cuba will not be evacuated, a Pentagon official has told Newsweek.Terrorist suspects being held at the US naval base in Guantanamo Bay on Cuba will not be evacuated, a Pentagon official has told Newsweek.
“We have no indications that any detainees at Guantanamo Bay will need to be evacuated from the installation due to Hurricane Irma,” Major Ben Sakrisson, a Pentagon spokesman told the magazine.“We have no indications that any detainees at Guantanamo Bay will need to be evacuated from the installation due to Hurricane Irma,” Major Ben Sakrisson, a Pentagon spokesman told the magazine.
Officials have also opted not to evacuate the residents of the base, preferring instead to have them stay put and ride out the storm.Officials have also opted not to evacuate the residents of the base, preferring instead to have them stay put and ride out the storm.
10.57am BST10.57am BST
10:5710:57
BVI Governor 'heartbroken' by reports of fatalitiesBVI Governor 'heartbroken' by reports of fatalities
The Governor of the British Virgin Islands, Gus Jaspert, has delivered an emotional message to islanders saying he is “heartbroken” by reports of casualties as a result of the hurricane.The Governor of the British Virgin Islands, Gus Jaspert, has delivered an emotional message to islanders saying he is “heartbroken” by reports of casualties as a result of the hurricane.
In an audio message on Facebook he said:In an audio message on Facebook he said:
I come to you with a heavy heart after experiencing and observing the extent of devastation caused by Hurricane Irma. After consultation with the Premier I have declared a state of emergency for the territory. Radio and other communication channels are extremely limited ...I come to you with a heavy heart after experiencing and observing the extent of devastation caused by Hurricane Irma. After consultation with the Premier I have declared a state of emergency for the territory. Radio and other communication channels are extremely limited ...
All of us have been affected by Irma and some more than others. Apart from the structural damage, there have sadly been reports of casualties and fatalities. I am truly heartbroken by this news. My thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you.All of us have been affected by Irma and some more than others. Apart from the structural damage, there have sadly been reports of casualties and fatalities. I am truly heartbroken by this news. My thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you.
I know many of you are concerned about what will happen in the short term over the next couple of hours and days. I would like to appeal to you to remain calm and to reassure you that we are doing all that we can to assist you.I know many of you are concerned about what will happen in the short term over the next couple of hours and days. I would like to appeal to you to remain calm and to reassure you that we are doing all that we can to assist you.
Jaspert urged islanders to monitor the course of the next Hurricane, Jose, which could hit the islands in the coming days. He said:Jaspert urged islanders to monitor the course of the next Hurricane, Jose, which could hit the islands in the coming days. He said:
On its current track, Jose is predicted to pass north of the Virgin Islands, possibly as a Category 3 hurricane on Saturday or Sunday. If it stays north of us we will not be significantly affected. But if it comes any closer to us we will be affected and so our preparation and response efforts have to be immediate. We need your cooperation and your support to ensure that we can ramp up our operations in the event that we are impacted again.On its current track, Jose is predicted to pass north of the Virgin Islands, possibly as a Category 3 hurricane on Saturday or Sunday. If it stays north of us we will not be significantly affected. But if it comes any closer to us we will be affected and so our preparation and response efforts have to be immediate. We need your cooperation and your support to ensure that we can ramp up our operations in the event that we are impacted again.
Let us all continue to help each other however we can and continue to pray for each other. May God bless and protect the territory and our people.”Let us all continue to help each other however we can and continue to pray for each other. May God bless and protect the territory and our people.”
UpdatedUpdated
at 11.30am BSTat 11.30am BST
10.42am BST10.42am BST
10:4210:42
Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte says the runway on St Maarten has been cleared and first aid flight has arrived.Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte says the runway on St Maarten has been cleared and first aid flight has arrived.
In a Facebook update he said there has been enormous destruction and upheaval on the Franco-Dutch island.In a Facebook update he said there has been enormous destruction and upheaval on the Franco-Dutch island.
“Many inhabitants are devoid of basic necessities,” Rutte said.“Many inhabitants are devoid of basic necessities,” Rutte said.
He added:He added:
“We’ve been able to clear the runway at the airport and a first plane has landed. Our troops have been able to unload supplies at the port. We are now trying to get as much food, water and medicine as possible in the shortest possible time.“We’ve been able to clear the runway at the airport and a first plane has landed. Our troops have been able to unload supplies at the port. We are now trying to get as much food, water and medicine as possible in the shortest possible time.
We need to hurry because the next hurricane is coming. The latest reports are that hurricane José is less powerful and Sint Maarten and will pass further from the island. That is some good news in all the misery. But we are prepared for everything and will keep an eye on the situation. We won’t abandon St Maarten.”We need to hurry because the next hurricane is coming. The latest reports are that hurricane José is less powerful and Sint Maarten and will pass further from the island. That is some good news in all the misery. But we are prepared for everything and will keep an eye on the situation. We won’t abandon St Maarten.”
In a press conference Rutte is reported to have told reporters that there is “serious” problem with looting in the wake of the hurricane.In a press conference Rutte is reported to have told reporters that there is “serious” problem with looting in the wake of the hurricane.
#BREAKING Looting situation 'serious' in hurricane-hit St Martin: Dutch PM#BREAKING Looting situation 'serious' in hurricane-hit St Martin: Dutch PM
The Dutch broadcaster RTL Nieuws has published video purporting to show looting in the wake of the storm.The Dutch broadcaster RTL Nieuws has published video purporting to show looting in the wake of the storm.
Video - plunderingen op Sint-Maarten na orkaan Irma. https://t.co/33ype6UZN2 pic.twitter.com/X0PXgMeZ7oVideo - plunderingen op Sint-Maarten na orkaan Irma. https://t.co/33ype6UZN2 pic.twitter.com/X0PXgMeZ7o
10.25am BST10.25am BST
10:2510:25
Here’s the slightly adjusted track and timings of impact from the latest update. Miami still lies directly in its path.Here’s the slightly adjusted track and timings of impact from the latest update. Miami still lies directly in its path.
Those in central Florida have been warned to expect category tow strength winds of up to 110mph at the weekend.Those in central Florida have been warned to expect category tow strength winds of up to 110mph at the weekend.
Tropical storm winds are likely to arrive in the FL Keys and south FL Saturday. Preparations should be rushed to completion. #Irma pic.twitter.com/eto2KVWtgPTropical storm winds are likely to arrive in the FL Keys and south FL Saturday. Preparations should be rushed to completion. #Irma pic.twitter.com/eto2KVWtgP
9/8 5AM Tropical Update: #Irma is an extremely dangerous Category 4 Hurricane Hurricane Warning in effect for all of South Florida! #FLwx pic.twitter.com/D7eEA3WZw89/8 5AM Tropical Update: #Irma is an extremely dangerous Category 4 Hurricane Hurricane Warning in effect for all of South Florida! #FLwx pic.twitter.com/D7eEA3WZw8
10.18am BST10.18am BST
10:1810:18
Irma downgraded to category 4 hurricaneIrma downgraded to category 4 hurricane
Irma is still “extremely dangerous” but it has been downgraded from a category 5 to a category 4 hurricane with sustained windspeeds of 155mph.Irma is still “extremely dangerous” but it has been downgraded from a category 5 to a category 4 hurricane with sustained windspeeds of 155mph.
Here’s are the main points from the latest National Hurricane Center update:Here’s are the main points from the latest National Hurricane Center update:
The Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas are warned of life-threatening winds and storm surges until Saturday. Hurricane conditions will also spread to parts of north Cuba.The Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas are warned of life-threatening winds and storm surges until Saturday. Hurricane conditions will also spread to parts of north Cuba.
Severe hurricane conditions will hit Florida on Saturday night.Severe hurricane conditions will hit Florida on Saturday night.
A storm surge warning of “life threatening inundation” is place for the next 36 hours in Florida.A storm surge warning of “life threatening inundation” is place for the next 36 hours in Florida.
The US states of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina have been warned of “life-threatening flash floods and mudslides” from next Tuesday.The US states of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina have been warned of “life-threatening flash floods and mudslides” from next Tuesday.
Here are the 5 AM EDT Key Messages for #Irma https://t.co/tW4KeGdBFb pic.twitter.com/pGNthaZ4hrHere are the 5 AM EDT Key Messages for #Irma https://t.co/tW4KeGdBFb pic.twitter.com/pGNthaZ4hr
10.05am BST10.05am BST
10:0510:05
Hurricane Jose and Katia gain strengthHurricane Jose and Katia gain strength
While Irma has lost a little strength, two other Hurricanes in the region Katia and Jose have gained strength, according to the latest warnings from the National Hurricane Center.While Irma has lost a little strength, two other Hurricanes in the region Katia and Jose have gained strength, according to the latest warnings from the National Hurricane Center.
Irma is still packing devastating sustained wind speeds of 155 mph (down from 185mph).Irma is still packing devastating sustained wind speeds of 155 mph (down from 185mph).
Close behind it is Hurricane Jose which has slightly increased power and now has sustained speeds of 125mph. At the weekend it is forecast to batter the same Leeward Islands that were hit by Hurricane Irma earlier this week.Close behind it is Hurricane Jose which has slightly increased power and now has sustained speeds of 125mph. At the weekend it is forecast to batter the same Leeward Islands that were hit by Hurricane Irma earlier this week.
Hurricane #Jose Advisory 12: Jose a Little Stronger. https://t.co/VqHn0uj6EMHurricane #Jose Advisory 12: Jose a Little Stronger. https://t.co/VqHn0uj6EM
To the south-west in the Gulf of Mexico is Hurricane Katia which has increase sustained wind speeds to 90mp.To the south-west in the Gulf of Mexico is Hurricane Katia which has increase sustained wind speeds to 90mp.
Hurricane #Katia Advisory 11: Katia a Little Stronger. https://t.co/VqHn0uj6EMHurricane #Katia Advisory 11: Katia a Little Stronger. https://t.co/VqHn0uj6EM
9.42am BST9.42am BST
09:4209:42
Fears for those who ignored evacuation orders in the BahamasFears for those who ignored evacuation orders in the Bahamas
Captain Stephen Russell, of the Bahamas national emergency management agency, has expressed fears for hundreds of people who ignored evacuation orders on islands in the archipelago.Captain Stephen Russell, of the Bahamas national emergency management agency, has expressed fears for hundreds of people who ignored evacuation orders on islands in the archipelago.
Speaking to the BBC Radio 4’s Today programme he said there were five islands that are likely to be worst hit by Irma: Great Inagua ( population 913); Mayaguana (277) Acklins (population 428); Crooked Islands (population 350); and Ragged Island (population 72).Speaking to the BBC Radio 4’s Today programme he said there were five islands that are likely to be worst hit by Irma: Great Inagua ( population 913); Mayaguana (277) Acklins (population 428); Crooked Islands (population 350); and Ragged Island (population 72).
Irma was recorded barrelling over these islands within the last 90 minutes.Irma was recorded barrelling over these islands within the last 90 minutes.
The eye of Hurricane #Irma passes over Little Inagua Island in The Bahamas with winds near 160 mph pic.twitter.com/mKlhvRKnjXThe eye of Hurricane #Irma passes over Little Inagua Island in The Bahamas with winds near 160 mph pic.twitter.com/mKlhvRKnjX
All of the people on those islands were urged to leave as have the 600 people on the islands of Bimini, 50 miles to the east of the coast of Florida.All of the people on those islands were urged to leave as have the 600 people on the islands of Bimini, 50 miles to the east of the coast of Florida.
Up to two-thirds of the people on those islands, have been flown to the capital Nassau, Russell said, including 400 people from the Bimini islands on Thursday.Up to two-thirds of the people on those islands, have been flown to the capital Nassau, Russell said, including 400 people from the Bimini islands on Thursday.
He said: “I fear for those person who chose not to evacuate from the islands. The government has made a very strong appeal to them. But some are simply stubborn. There is very little we can do to assistant until Monday or Tuesday. That is fear, that when we go into those areas we are going to find persons in serious distress and even fatalities.”He said: “I fear for those person who chose not to evacuate from the islands. The government has made a very strong appeal to them. But some are simply stubborn. There is very little we can do to assistant until Monday or Tuesday. That is fear, that when we go into those areas we are going to find persons in serious distress and even fatalities.”
He added: “Those who have stayed include troops, police officers and persons who just made up their mind that they are not going to leave their island. That is their choice. The government of the Bahamas made a strong appeal for all of them to leave the island but they made up their minds that they are going to ride out the storm in the islands.”He added: “Those who have stayed include troops, police officers and persons who just made up their mind that they are not going to leave their island. That is their choice. The government of the Bahamas made a strong appeal for all of them to leave the island but they made up their minds that they are going to ride out the storm in the islands.”
UpdatedUpdated
at 9.43am BSTat 9.43am BST
8.52am BST8.52am BST
08:5208:52
Dutch troops have begun unloading aid on the Franco-Dutch island of St Martin.Dutch troops have begun unloading aid on the Franco-Dutch island of St Martin.
KDC-10 geland op Curaçao. Uitladen opgestart voor hulp aan Sint Maarten. pic.twitter.com/DNbuqzEtFaKDC-10 geland op Curaçao. Uitladen opgestart voor hulp aan Sint Maarten. pic.twitter.com/DNbuqzEtFa
Assisteren van lokale autoriteiten en hulp bieden. Dat is wat er nu plaats vindt. Meer hulp is onderweg. Gevolgen catastrofaal. #Irma #SXM pic.twitter.com/1XX7CG579aAssisteren van lokale autoriteiten en hulp bieden. Dat is wat er nu plaats vindt. Meer hulp is onderweg. Gevolgen catastrofaal. #Irma #SXM pic.twitter.com/1XX7CG579a
The French government has sent two ships to the area.The French government has sent two ships to the area.
#Irma : 2 frégates de la @MarineNationale le Ventôse et le Germinal, vont porter assistance aux îles sinistrées https://t.co/lQYnn7NU4K pic.twitter.com/qudx3tHWjs#Irma : 2 frégates de la @MarineNationale le Ventôse et le Germinal, vont porter assistance aux îles sinistrées https://t.co/lQYnn7NU4K pic.twitter.com/qudx3tHWjs
The UK government has deployed RFA Mounts Bay to the area. HMS Ocean is also on the way, but will not reach the Caribbean for at least 10 days.The UK government has deployed RFA Mounts Bay to the area. HMS Ocean is also on the way, but will not reach the Caribbean for at least 10 days.
The RFA Mount's Bay, carrying 40 Royal Marines and Army Engineers, is helping provide water, sanitation and temporary shelter #Irma #UKaid pic.twitter.com/wQCGoJD46HThe RFA Mount's Bay, carrying 40 Royal Marines and Army Engineers, is helping provide water, sanitation and temporary shelter #Irma #UKaid pic.twitter.com/wQCGoJD46H
8.30am BST8.30am BST
08:3008:30
A former official on the British dependency of Anguilla has an update on the carnage on the island left by Irma.A former official on the British dependency of Anguilla has an update on the carnage on the island left by Irma.
The official, who does not want to be named, said the island high school has been destroyed; the public works building has collapsed and part of the roof of the main hospital is missing.The official, who does not want to be named, said the island high school has been destroyed; the public works building has collapsed and part of the roof of the main hospital is missing.
“It is fair to call the situation devastating,” he said, “most roads remain blocked and power lines are down.”“It is fair to call the situation devastating,” he said, “most roads remain blocked and power lines are down.”
He added that power lines are down everywhere and that mobile phone connections are patchy at best.He added that power lines are down everywhere and that mobile phone connections are patchy at best.
The UK government plans to deploy troops to the island after conceded that the situation there was worse than feared.The UK government plans to deploy troops to the island after conceded that the situation there was worse than feared.
Patrick Lynch of Roy’s Bayside Grill forwarded images of some of the damage to Anguilla.Patrick Lynch of Roy’s Bayside Grill forwarded images of some of the damage to Anguilla.
7.50am BST7.50am BST
07:5007:50
Matthew WeaverMatthew Weaver
One of the humanitarian experts sent by the British government to the Caribbean has admitted that the UK has not done as much for its territories in the the region as the Dutch and French government have for theirs.One of the humanitarian experts sent by the British government to the Caribbean has admitted that the UK has not done as much for its territories in the the region as the Dutch and French government have for theirs.
Fergus Thomas is a member of two small humanitarian teams deployed to the Caribbean in the wake of Irma.Fergus Thomas is a member of two small humanitarian teams deployed to the Caribbean in the wake of Irma.
DFID humanitarian expert Fergus is now on the ground in Barbados, to help coordinate the response to #HurricaneIrma #UKaid pic.twitter.com/7E13bMJnevDFID humanitarian expert Fergus is now on the ground in Barbados, to help coordinate the response to #HurricaneIrma #UKaid pic.twitter.com/7E13bMJnev
He was asked on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme about criticism from Anguilla, one of the islands worst hit, that Britain had failed to follow the example of the Netherlands and France in preparing its dependencies for the impact of the hurricane.He was asked on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme about criticism from Anguilla, one of the islands worst hit, that Britain had failed to follow the example of the Netherlands and France in preparing its dependencies for the impact of the hurricane.
Thomas replied: “That’s a very fair comment. There is quite some justification in that, however we have had a navy vessel that has been sheltering just south of Puerto Rico and has now deployed, so within 24 hours we have managed to move some of our military assets to support the survivors and today they were in Anguilla.”Thomas replied: “That’s a very fair comment. There is quite some justification in that, however we have had a navy vessel that has been sheltering just south of Puerto Rico and has now deployed, so within 24 hours we have managed to move some of our military assets to support the survivors and today they were in Anguilla.”
He admitted UK humanitarian teams had yet to reach the worst hit areas. He said: “We haven’t got onto the ground on the islands that have been worst hit. Some of our military colleagues have got out today and started doing the first assistance.”He admitted UK humanitarian teams had yet to reach the worst hit areas. He said: “We haven’t got onto the ground on the islands that have been worst hit. Some of our military colleagues have got out today and started doing the first assistance.”
But he said it was unfair to criticise the UK military for its response.But he said it was unfair to criticise the UK military for its response.
“They moved us as soon as soon as they could to the islands that have been worst hit. I would question the criticism that they [the British military] haven’t been timely. They are the first responders in Anguilla. They are moving now to the British Virgin Islands, which as far as we now have been majorly catastrophically hit.”“They moved us as soon as soon as they could to the islands that have been worst hit. I would question the criticism that they [the British military] haven’t been timely. They are the first responders in Anguilla. They are moving now to the British Virgin Islands, which as far as we now have been majorly catastrophically hit.”
On Thursday foreign office minister Alan Duncan defended the UK government’s response by pointed out that the UK does not directly govern its islands in the Caribbean. He told the Commons: “The relationship between overseas territories and their parent countries differs. Whilst French territories are directly governed, that is not the case with our overseas territories. While this means our responses will, of course, be different, we will seek to achieve the same objectives and are taking immediate steps to do so.”On Thursday foreign office minister Alan Duncan defended the UK government’s response by pointed out that the UK does not directly govern its islands in the Caribbean. He told the Commons: “The relationship between overseas territories and their parent countries differs. Whilst French territories are directly governed, that is not the case with our overseas territories. While this means our responses will, of course, be different, we will seek to achieve the same objectives and are taking immediate steps to do so.”
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What we know so farWhat we know so far
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
Hurricane Irma remains a category 5 hurricane, with slightly decreased wind speeds of 160mph (260kph), currently swiping Great Inagua island at the southernmost tip of the Bahamas.Hurricane Irma remains a category 5 hurricane, with slightly decreased wind speeds of 160mph (260kph), currently swiping Great Inagua island at the southernmost tip of the Bahamas.
Captain Stephen Russell, of the Bahamas national emergency management agency, said rising tide levels could be life-threatening:Captain Stephen Russell, of the Bahamas national emergency management agency, said rising tide levels could be life-threatening:
The destructive force of a 25ft surge: that is our greatest concern. It can really cause catastrophic resultsThe destructive force of a 25ft surge: that is our greatest concern. It can really cause catastrophic results
From there, Irma is set to scrape the north of Cuba before heading to southern Florida and the Florida Keys, where a full-scale hurricane warning is in place and mass evacuations have been ordered before expected landfall on Saturday.From there, Irma is set to scrape the north of Cuba before heading to southern Florida and the Florida Keys, where a full-scale hurricane warning is in place and mass evacuations have been ordered before expected landfall on Saturday.
Cuba is evacuating tourists from coastal resorts and warning residents to move inland.Cuba is evacuating tourists from coastal resorts and warning residents to move inland.
On Thursday night Irma crossed north of Haiti, causing less damage than had been feared in the beleaguered country. There were reports of some injuries and damage to buildings, but not widespread devastation.On Thursday night Irma crossed north of Haiti, causing less damage than had been feared in the beleaguered country. There were reports of some injuries and damage to buildings, but not widespread devastation.
The hurricane also pummelled the Turks and Caicos Islands, where power failed and the governor, John Freeman, warned residents:The hurricane also pummelled the Turks and Caicos Islands, where power failed and the governor, John Freeman, warned residents:
Hunker down, stay where you are … Nobody can get to you – people are, for a little while, on their own.Hunker down, stay where you are … Nobody can get to you – people are, for a little while, on their own.
Across the Caribbean, at least 13 people are confirmed to have died in the storm: an infant on Barbuda, one person in Anguilla, three people in Puerto Rico, four in the US Virgin Islands, and four in the French territory of St Martin.Across the Caribbean, at least 13 people are confirmed to have died in the storm: an infant on Barbuda, one person in Anguilla, three people in Puerto Rico, four in the US Virgin Islands, and four in the French territory of St Martin.
Lonnie Soury, a spokesman for the US Virgin Islands, said the toll was expected to rise.Lonnie Soury, a spokesman for the US Virgin Islands, said the toll was expected to rise.
The UK, France and the Netherlands have mobilised personnel and aid for their overseas territories that were caught in the onslaught.The UK, France and the Netherlands have mobilised personnel and aid for their overseas territories that were caught in the onslaught.
After complaints that the British government’s response has been slow, ministers authorised £32m in emergency aid and dispatched a military task group. HMS Ocean – currently in the Mediterranean – will be deployed but will take 10-14 days to reach the Caribbean.After complaints that the British government’s response has been slow, ministers authorised £32m in emergency aid and dispatched a military task group. HMS Ocean – currently in the Mediterranean – will be deployed but will take 10-14 days to reach the Caribbean.
A voluntary evacuation began from the tiny island of Barbuda – where upwards of 90% of homes were destroyed – to its larger sister island of Antigua, with the prospect of Hurricane Jose, a category 3 storm, striking this weekend.A voluntary evacuation began from the tiny island of Barbuda – where upwards of 90% of homes were destroyed – to its larger sister island of Antigua, with the prospect of Hurricane Jose, a category 3 storm, striking this weekend.
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From its current havoc in the Bahamas, Hurricane Irma is set to move across northern Cuba before hitting southern Florida and making its way up the state.From its current havoc in the Bahamas, Hurricane Irma is set to move across northern Cuba before hitting southern Florida and making its way up the state.
Governor Rick Scott has warned that the storm will be “bigger than our entire state” – as forecast images confirm:Governor Rick Scott has warned that the storm will be “bigger than our entire state” – as forecast images confirm:
Not a pretty picture for South Florida according to HWRF showing an intense #Irma. This is for early Sunday morning. #HurricaneIrma pic.twitter.com/tgiAWIe5o0Not a pretty picture for South Florida according to HWRF showing an intense #Irma. This is for early Sunday morning. #HurricaneIrma pic.twitter.com/tgiAWIe5o0
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Irma has now whipped a path from Barbuda in the east to, currently, the Bahamas, with the north of Cuba and then Florida still in its sights.Irma has now whipped a path from Barbuda in the east to, currently, the Bahamas, with the north of Cuba and then Florida still in its sights.
We have been monitoring the effects of the category 5 storm on each island, as reports come in of casualties and damage:We have been monitoring the effects of the category 5 storm on each island, as reports come in of casualties and damage: