Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Death Toll Rises in Bahamas, Communities Still Cut Off

Associated Press

   ABACO, BAHAMAS - Search and rescue teams are still trying to reach some
   Bahamian communities isolated by floodwaters and debris after Hurricane
   Dorian, while the official death toll has risen to 43 and is likely to
   increase even more, top officials said.

   Health Minister Duane Sands said late Friday in a text message to The
   Associated Press that 13 more deaths had been confirmed on top of the
   earlier number of 30.

   "We expect it to rise," Sands said.

   Pace of disaster relief

   Security Minister Marvin Dames said authorities are striving to reach
   everyone, but the crews can't just bulldoze their way through fallen
   trees and other rubble because there might be bodies not yet recovered.

   "We have been through this before, but not at this level of
   devastation," Dames said. "These are very serious times and very
   sensitive times."

.