The storm, which is swirling near the northwest Bahamas, is expected to intensify to a Category Four hurricane as it moves northwest towards Florida. “Seriously consider now moving to higher grounds,” Bahamian Prime Minister Perry Christie told southern coastal communities before the storm hit. In its latest bulletin, the US-based National Hurricane Center reported that hurricane conditions were expected to reach Florida by late Thursday. - 'Prepare for direct hit' - ============================ The hurricane is expected to move “very close to the east coast of the Florida peninsula” Thursday through Friday, the NHC said. - 'Nothing left' - ================== As Matthew barreled northwest, Haiti and Cuba began the grim task of assessing the storm's toll.

Source: Sunday Times October 06, 2016 11:17 UTC