THE BOTTOM – Hurricane Irma sent shockwaves through Saba as it devastated the island on its path of horror. Although there were no serious bodily injuries nor deaths, Irma left several homeless and many with homes still intact scurrying to repair what may be diminished as the islands await yet another hurricane, José.
Hurricane José is gaining strength and is expected to become a major Category 3 hurricane by Friday. The National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane watch for the Caribbean islands including Saba and St. Eustatius. Jose is expected to be packing 111 mph wind speeds.
Sabans Luis and Alexis talk about the aftermath of hurricane Irma
Damage
The island’s capital The Bottom and neighboring village St. Johns severed the most structural damage. Several house roves were blown off by the powerful impact of Irma’s 180 mph winds. The island’s notorious greenery unfortunately incurred impeccable damage. The mountains throughout the island appear as if the result of a massive fire.
One of the many homes on Saba that lost the roof as a result of hurricane Irma. Photo: Hazel Durand
As a precautionary measure the island’s electric company shut off the electricity Tuesday midnight. This left many out of touch with the outside world, which made the experience all the more nerve wrecking. “We are all saddened to the destruction and devastation in St. Maarten”, said Island Governor Jonathan Johnson.
The whole right part of this house was blown away. Photo: Hazel Durand
Cleanup
Saba Electric Company is currently still busy restoring electricity to all parts of the island. Wednesday evening electricity was restored to most parts of the island. Schools remain closed.
Saba’s disaster management team was in full force Wednesday in the aftermath of the hurricane. “Since yesterday we have been busy with cleanup and we thank all those who came out to help”, stated Island Governor Johnson.
Just one of the many tall trees on Saba that was completely shambled. Photo: Hazel Durand
A group of volunteers from Saba’s University School of Medicine, along with several locals and the Dutch marines were seen in full force assisting in clearing the streets of debris. The streets of The Bottom were overwhelmed with fallen trees and other objects which blocked roadways.
Many of the island’s hills now look like this. Many Saban’s have never seen this hillside bare as it appears now. Photo: Hazel Durand
The almost 7 hour ordeal took an emotional toll on many. “This is a challenge for us, but we have a team working on this. Again I thank you for heeding to warnings regarding hurricane Irma. I am thankful for everyone’s efforts. The coming days, weeks and months we will be busy cleaning and rebuilding”, says the governor.