A Dry Season in a Cruising Sailor’s Paradise Leads to Increased Wildfires
Local resources say that the series of fires that raged throughout the Abacos, Bahamas, over the weekend have been contained. At one point the fast-moving line of fires threatened the airport at Marsh Harbour.
Volunteer firefighters received significant assistance from a crop duster plane and additional firefighters from New Providence and Grand Bahama, leading to the successful containment of the fires.
Mike Dillon of Abaco Yacht and Charter Services told SpinSheet, “The fires have been pretty bad here this year. It is normal for us to have forest fires every year. However, this year is especially bad. We have not had any measurable rain in months, and with all of the fallen trees from (Hurricane) Dorian in 2019 there is a lot to burn out there.
“We are safe, and it seems now that the fires have been knocked down pretty good thanks to a second home owner that flew his air tractor in from Texas to drop water on the fires. That literally saved homes, businesses, and lives!!”
Cruise Abaco’s reservations manager Maria reports business as usual in their charter business.
“Fortunately, the recent fires have not affected our cruising destinations or operations. Everything is running smoothly, and we’re fully operational.”
Abaco Tribune Chief reporter Leandra Rolle wrote in her Monday report “THICK smoke from a weeklong wildfire in Abaco smothered the island over the weekend, triggering US air support, extra firefighters, the destruction of a utilities building, and the shutdown of nearby schools and businesses.”
Local officials say the fire, which began last week, was believed to be under control—until strong winds caused it to jump the road yesterday and head toward Sweetings Village, a quiet residential community on the island. The chairman of the Marsh Harbour/Spring City Township, Roscoe Thompson, said, “Volunteer firefighters worked into the early hours of Sunday to contain the blaze and protect lives and property.”
The fact that several fires sprang up almost simultaneously has led some observers to suspect arson.
The Abacos are a favorite cruising ground for US boaters. SpinSheet published an abbreviated cruising guide in its October 2024 issue. (spinsheet.com/charter/perfect-sailing-vacation-abacos-bahamas).
Cruisers bound for the Abacos are advised to check local conditions before setting out. The Tribune is a good source for up-to-date information. tribune242.com
By Craig Ligibel
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