Hurricane Risk in The Bahamas: The Honest Guide
Data-driven truth about storm risk, insurance, property protection, and what happens to values after major hurricanes. The guide other agents won't publish.
By Glenn Ferguson • Updated February 2026
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The Honest Answer
Yes, The Bahamas is in the hurricane belt. Season runs June 1–November 30. But Nassau hasn't taken a direct major hit since 2016. The archipelago spans 500+ miles — impact varies enormously. Well-built properties in protected communities are among the Caribbean's most resilient. Historically, Nassau values recover and appreciate after every storm.
Nassau's Hurricane Track Record
Devastated Abaco/Grand Bahama. Nassau: tropical storm conditions, minimal damage. Values unaffected.
Passed near Nassau. Southern flooding, moderate damage. Gated communities recovered in weeks.
Minimal damage. Low-area flooding, 1–3 day power outages.
Two storms within weeks. Power outages up to a week. Limited structural damage to proper construction.
Risk by Area
Gated Communities
Lower RiskAlbany, Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay, Palm Cay. Modern concrete, community hurricane plans, generators, pro management.
Cable Beach Condos
ModerateReinforced concrete, hurricane windows. Ground-level surge risk. Upper floors well-protected.
Paradise Island
ModerateLow elevation = surge risk on harbour side. Four Seasons built to highest standards. Fast community recovery.
Eastern Nassau Coast
ElevatedExposed coastline, older construction may not meet current codes. Due diligence on build quality essential.
Insurance Costs
| Property | Replacement Value | Annual Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Condo | $300K–$500K | $2,500–$6,000 |
| Gated Home | $500K–$1.5M | $5,000–$15,000 |
| Luxury Estate | $1.5M–$5M | $15,000–$40,000 |
| Beachfront | $1M–$3M | $15,000–$45,000 |
What Happens to Values After Hurricanes?
Nassau after Dorian (2019): Unaffected. Luxury prices up 8–12% annually through 2025.
Abaco after Dorian: Dropped 30–50%. Rebuilt properties now exceed pre-storm values.
The Pattern
Hurricanes cause temporary disruption but don't destroy values in well-built Nassau communities. What destroys value is neglect — uninsured, unmanaged, unprotected properties.
Protection Checklist
- Property manager on call — can secure property within 24 hours of hurricane watch
- Hurricane shutters installed & tested annually before June 1
- Outdoor furniture secured — flying debris causes most window damage
- Insurance current — confirm limits, deductibles, claims process
- Generator tested quarterly with 48+ hours fuel
- Documents in the cloud — title, insurance, inventory photos
- Trees trimmed annually before hurricane season
- Post-storm inspection plan — manager reports within 24–48 hours with photos
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I avoid beachfront?
Does climate change make Bahamas a bad investment?
What if I'm overseas during a storm?
Who should I call to buy a home in The Bahamas?
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