Sep 6, 2008 11:26 pm US/Eastern
Bahamas Residents Scramble To Prepare
NASSAU, BAHAMAS (CBS4) ―
As the sun set in Nassau, Quincie Richardson closed up shop after a long day. Shoppers descended on stores in the Bahamas Saturday, to stock up on perishables and much-needed hurricane supplies before Hurricane Ike makes its appearance.
CBS4's David Sutta took a look at how the Islands are preparing for the worst.
"This morning was hectic. When I came in this morning, I met customers waiting in the cars to come in. They were really anxious," Richardson said. There's just a single generator left in the storm as the Bahamas are under the gun for yet another storm in a week's time.
"This time, it's more serious. We have hurricanes time after time but this time I really feel it is of real concern."
Despite picture perfect weather and cruise ships lining the docs, locals aren't taking any chances. Most have left their hurricane shutters up from Tropical Storm Hanna.
Meanwhile, visitors are given few options. "They told us that if we stayed, we would have to go into the Grand Ballroom in the Atlantis and sit with everyone in the hotel so I was like no, I'm not doing that," explained Jennifer Dimaria. The tourist from Staten Island was on her way out.
Tourists not leaving by boat hit the airport Saturday to get out of harms way. Planes were packed full on Friday, leaving stragglers more options over the weekend.
The Dipintos arrived just in time for Tropical Storm Hanna's visit. The couple has decided not to stick around to see Ike, or to see the airport closed down. "They said it was going to close down around mid-day so… might as well leave now. Call it a day. What a waste!" said Vince Dipinto. His honeymoon was cut short by the week of storms.
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