Hurricane Dorian battered the Bahamas for more than two days, and is only now beginning to move away from the islands and toward Florida. According to the New York Times, the storm was one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record when it hit the northern Bahamas.

Rescue efforts are underway, but currently impeded by severe flooding. At least five people have reportedly died, and the destruction to homes and infrastructure is hard to overstate. "We are already hearing from residents that whole towns have been wiped out and devastated," Kevin D. Harris, the director general of the Bahamas Information Center, told the Times.



In the wake of the hurricane's destruction, Queen Elizabeth has sent her sympathies. The monarchy has close ties to the country, as the Bahamas are member of the British Commonwealth Realm. "Her Majesty, as The Queen of the Bahamas, has sent the following message of condolence to the Governor-General," read the introduction to the Queen's words. See the message in full below:

Prince Philip and I have been shocked and saddened to learn of the devastation caused by Hurricane Dorian, and we send our sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives following this terrible storm.

At this very difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with those who have seen their homes and property destroyed, and I also send my gratitude to the emergency services and volunteers who are supporting the rescue and recovery effort.

Elizabeth R

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