Residents across the Central and Southeast Bahamas endured the brunt of Hurricane Melissa on Tuesday, as the Category Two storm unleashed heavy rainfall, powerful winds, and the looming threat of severe flooding. The Bahamas Department of Meteorology issued Alert #24, warning of sustained winds reaching 100 miles per hour, storm surges, and up to ten inches of rainfall. The hurricane, moving northeast at 15 miles per hour, impacted several islands, including Ragged Island, Long Island, Acklins, Crooked Island, Long Cay, Rum Cay, and San Salvador. By mid-afternoon, the storm’s core passed approximately 25 miles east-southeast of Duncan Town, Ragged Island, and 60 miles south-southwest of South Long Island, bringing hurricane conditions to the region. On Long Island, residents reported worsening weather, with tropical-storm-strength gusts and power outages. Ann Cartwright, a resident of Gray’s, described the situation as calm but overcast, with winds exceeding 30 miles per hour. Meanwhile, Jill Smith of Stella Maris highlighted repeated power cuts and rapidly deteriorating conditions, particularly in the southern part of the island, where residents faced water and electricity shortages ahead of the storm. In Exuma, Princess McKenzie noted continuous rainfall since 4 a.m., while Gary Rolle expressed resilience despite the panic caused by the hurricane. On Acklins, Island Administrator Herman Gilbert confirmed that 194 residents chose to remain behind despite evacuation efforts, citing poor communication due to weather-related disruptions. Ragged Island residents were evacuated earlier in the week, with evacuees staying with family in New Providence. Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis issued a mandatory evacuation order under the Disaster Risk Management (Evacuation – Southeast Bahamas) Order 2025, relocating over 1,400 residents from Inagua, Mayaguana, Acklins, Crooked Island, Long Cay, and Ragged Island. The order prioritized the elderly, sick, and children, with Davis emphasizing the government’s commitment to public safety. Although Hurricane Melissa weakened as it moved north, authorities urged residents to remain vigilant as damage assessments continue.