6.18pm - Initial reports out of Eleuthera indicate the damage caused by Irene was significant, but not as bad as expected, however the islands are still being battered by hard wind and rain.
Elizabeth MP Ryan Pinder, who's father Marvin Pinder is from Spanish Wells, said he understands a fibre-optic cable has been severed in North Eleuthera cutting off all communications in the area.
However second hand reports out of Harbour Island indicated there was no major damage except for trees and shrubs, beach erosion and destruction of beach huts.
In Spanish Wells shingles have been ripped off roofs and trees are down, but residents said they have fared better than expected.
Mr Pinder said hi ...

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