West End, Grand Bahama – Stunned residents of this low-lying community salvaged rain-soaked possessions from their flattened houses yesterday as a team of government officials worked to develop a plan to find temporary housing for the hundreds they believe have been left homeless by Hurricane Frances.
Survivors of the monster storm’s 105mph winds stared in disbelief at boats thrown onto roadsides and piles of conch shells, seaweed and debris left behind in the streets by a powerful storm surge that destroyed virtually everything in its path. Hundreds of homes were exposed to the elements, their roofs ripped off like cardboard during Frances’ rampage over Grand Bahama.
“Total devastation,” was a refrain repeated by residents and government officials surveying the damage Monday.
Like other Bahamian islands the 3,000 residents here face the prospect of going weeks without telephone, electricity or reliable water service.
Source: Erica Wells, The Tribune
