[Cancelled See Other Story] Updates/Photos

[Now over] This morning [Oct 18] Bermuda begins the momentous task of cleaning up after Hurricane Gonzalo, with the storm having knocked out power for the majority of the island.

7.16am: BELCO said, “As soon as we have first light, BELCO will begin the task of assessing damage and beginning restoration. At this time, we cannot say how long restoration will take, but we will keep the country updated about progress. We will speak with CARILEC today to get crews en route, as soon as we know the status of the airport and causeway.

“As you open your door to go out today, please be very careful. Stay away from all downed lines and equipment — assume that everything is energized, that is to say, ‘live’. Do not go near any downed lines or equipment. Report them to BELCO and if at all possible include a photo and location information with your report to info@belco.bm. This will assist with damage assessment.

“Be safe, everyone. Please put safety above every other consideration today.”

Update 8.52am: BF&M will be open at 9.00am to accept Hurricane Gonzalo claims. Call 295-5566.

Update 9.42am: BELCO has swung into action, we had 30,700 customers out a few hours ago, and they have got that down to 28,850 by 9.30am — bringing close to 2000 customers back already — however they do warn damage is widespread, so restoration will not be easy.

BELCO said, “Where possible, BELCO is restoring power in a few areas. It is important to realize that damage is widespread, so restoration will not be quick or easy. We are also assessing damage and responding to reports of downed poles and other equipment, such as transformers. Again, there is a great deal of damage, so it will take time for crews to get to each location to make downed equipment safe. We appreciate the community’s patience, as we begin the restoration process.

“Currently, power has been restored to some customers — at this hour approximately 28,850 customers are without power (numbers are rounded) with the distribution as follows:

• West – 10,080
• Central – 10,870
• East – 7,050
• City of Hamilton – 850

Update 10.00am: Looking at the other side of the causeway shows, unfortunately, there is visible damage.

Update 10.17am: The Causeway has been damaged; click here for photos.

Update 10.43am: This post will no longer be updated, please see here, as we are going back to our live blog. Apologies for the chopping and changing, but we are fighting severe technical issues here…..due to Gonzalo obviously. Thanks for your patience with us!

#HurricaneGonzalo

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