In response to the imminent threat posed by Hurricane Melissa, Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis has declared a mandatory evacuation for residents in the southeastern Bahamas. The order, effective from October 27, 2025, until November 1, 2025, or until further notice, targets the islands of Inagua, Acklins, Crooked Island, Long Cay, Mayaguana, and Ragged Island. The government has assured that transportation will be provided to relocate evacuees to New Providence, where shelters and family support services are prepared. Priority evacuation is being given to the most vulnerable populations, including the sick, elderly, and children, followed by other residents. This evacuation is enforced under the Disaster Risk Management (Evacuation – Southeast Bahamas) Order, 2025, as per section 56 of the Disaster Risk Management Act 2022. Authorities are urging residents to comply promptly to ensure safety and minimize potential risks associated with the hurricane.
PM orders mandatory evacuation for Southeast Bahamas as Hurricane Melissa nears
