BELCO Provides Update Post Hurricane Lee
Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited [BELCO] has provided an update on power restoration efforts following the impacts from Hurricane Lee.
A spokesperson said, “Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited [BELCO] today provided an update on power restoration efforts following the impacts from Hurricane Lee.
“As of 10am, there were 11,342 customers without power.
“BELCO crews continued to work into the evening on Thursday, September 14 to restore power until it became unsafe to continue. Crews re-started work early this morning and will continue until every customer has had power restored.
“The public are advised to use caution around BELCO crews and to please allow them space to carry out their work. The public are also asked to please not call BELCO on 955 to report an outage so that the line is available for emergencies such as downed lines and pole fires.
“Pole fires are a constant threat during severe storms. Some storms contain very little rain, which can cause the air to become laden with salt that sticks to transformers. When the transformer heats up the salt becomes liquified, causing short circuits and sometimes a fire. If a member of the public sees a pole fire, immediately call 955 to report it.
“BELCO’s Head Office on Serpentine Road will be open to walk in customers at 12pm today. The public can check BELCO’s website and social media pages for updates on outages as well as safety advice.”
BELCO President Wayne Caines said: “While Bermuda was spared a direct hit from Hurricane Lee, the island experienced strong tropical storm force winds and gusts up to hurricane strength. This unfortunately caused widespread outages. Our crews are working as quickly and safely as possible to get all customers restored. I urge all residents to exercise caution and be safe in the aftermath of the storm. Stay away from any downed wires and please allow BELCO crews to carry out their restoration work unimpeded. I would also like to thank the public for their patience – we will work as quickly as possible to get power restored to all customers.”
You can see all our coverage of Hurricane Lee here, and our ongoing live updates on Hurricane Lee here.
