Source: http://www.usaid.gov/press/releases/2005/pr051031.html

In response to the damage caused by Hurricane Wilma, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is providing $50,000 to the Bahamian National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for the local purchase and distribution of emergency relief supplies and an additional $9,000 for locally contracted helicopter assessments of the affected areas.

On October 23, a USAID Regional Advisor deployed to the Bahamas to join the USAID consultant based in-country.

On October 24, Hurricane Wilma passed through the northern islands of the Bahamas. According to NEMA, the hurricane displaced approximately 1,500 people, damaged or destroyed more than 200 homes, and caused one fatality. The hurricane damaged public infrastructure, including schools, roads, health clinics, and electrical systems. The southwest portion of Grand Bahamas experienced powerful wind and storm surges that caused significant damage and destruction to residential areas on the island.

The USAID team continues to work closely with NEMA to assess the damage and identify priority needs.

Please visit our website for more information on USAID's efforts in the Caribbean: http://www.usaid.gov/locations/latin_america_caribbean/