Bahamas airport to close today ahead of Hurricane Irma

The Lynden Pindling International Airport in The Bahamas is to be closed at the end of day as the country braces for the effects of the dangerous category five Hurricane Irma.

The Government has encouraged all stakeholders to complete securing their premises and vehicles to reduce the risk of damage.

Travellers are also reminded to check with their airlines for flight time changes or cancellations.

The Bahamian government says airport operations will only resume after the all clear is given by weather officials and the National Emergency Management Agency.

Hurricane Irma has torn through the eastern Caribbean leaving a trail of destruction and at least 10 deaths as the powerful storm heads towards the US state of Florida.

From early reports the island of Barbuda is the worst affect with Prime Minister Gaston Browne reporting up to 90 to 95 per cent damage.