A massive relief effort has begun in the Bahamas as thge death toll from Hurricane Dorian has risen to 20 with more fatalities are expected, government officials have confirmed. Health Minister Duane Sands said Wednesday night that 17 victims are from the Abaco islands and three from Grand Bahama. He says three of the 20 victims died after being transported to a hospital in nearby New Providence. The government still is working to contact family members and are unable to release further details at this time. The sharp jump in the death toll comes after search and rescue teams fanned out across both islands as floodwaters receded and the weather cleared. 😱🌪💦

President Donald Trump has also offered his condolences and said the United States will provide all appropriate support to the people of the Bahamas during the Bahamian government's response to Hurricane Dorian. 😢