Portions based on an article on NOAA.gov.

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1 to 5 categorization based on the hurricane's intensity at the indicated time. The scale – originally developed by wind engineer Herb Saffir and meteorologist Bob Simpson – has been an excellent tool for alerting the public about the possible impacts of various intensity hurricanes[1]. The scale provides examples of the type of damage and impacts in the United States associated with winds of the indicated intensity. In general, damage rises by about a factor of four for every category increase[2]. The maximum sustained surface wind speed (peak 1-minute wind at the standard meteorological observation height of 10 m [33 ft] over unobstructed exposure) associated with the cyclone is the determining factor in the scale.

Hurricane Irene is projected to be a Category 3 hurricane when it passes through the central and northwest Bahamas on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. Following is the description provided by NOAA on its web site for a Category 3 hurricane:

Category Three Hurricane (Sustained winds 111-130 mph, 96-113 kt, or 178-209 km/hr).
Devastating damage will occur
There is a high risk of injury or death to people, livestock, and pets due to flying and falling debris. Nearly all older (pre-1994) mobile homes will be destroyed. Most newer mobile homes will sustain severe damage with potential for complete roof failure and wall collapse. Poorly constructed frame homes can be destroyed by the removal of the roof and exterior walls. Unprotected windows will be broken by flying debris. Well-built frame homes can experience major damage involving the removal of roof decking and gable ends. There will be a high percentage of roof covering and siding damage to apartment buildings and industrial buildings. Isolated structural damage to wood or steel framing can occur. Complete failure of older metal buildings is possible, and older unreinforced masonry buildings can collapse. Numerous windows will be blown out of high-rise buildings resulting in falling glass, which will pose a threat for days to weeks after the storm. Most commercial signage, fences, and canopies will be destroyed. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to a few weeks after the storm passes. Hurricane Ivan (2004) is an example of a hurricane that brought Category 3 winds and impacts to coastal portions of Gulf Shores, Alabama with Category 2 conditions experienced elsewhere in this city.

All residents of the Bahamas should heed the warnings provided by our emergency authorities and monitor both local and international services to ensure you are receiving the latest information.

Hurricane Irene is expected to be a major hurricane and, should it strike at or close to populated areas of the Bahamas, you can expect extensive and devastating damage to occur. If you are living in a structure that may not withstand these conditions, or if you are located in close proxmity to the ocean or areas prone to flooding in these extreme conditions, you must evacuate your home and move to an official shelter. DO NOT STAY IN YOUR HOME if you have been instructed to evacuate. Emergency services WILL NOT respond to calls for help during a storm as this would endanger additional lives. HEED the warnings and FOLLOW instructions BEFORE the weather conditions worsen.

• What actions to take
• Emergency preparedness
• Safety measures after the storm

For those in Grand Bahama, Marco City MP the Hon Zhivargo Laing has provided a helpful flyer with a checklist and shelter information. Click HERE to view or click HERE to download a high resolution printable PDF [18MB]. The Killarney Voice has also prepared some helpful information; click HERE to view.

BahamaIslandsInfo.com will continue to update online information as long as our dedicated team has electricity and Internet access. Please be sure to check in throughout the day and for the latest articles click HERE to follow us on Twitter.

Click HERE to learn more about the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

Stay safe.