Govt Issue Afternoon Advisory On Hurricane Lee
The Government issued an advisory this afternoon [Sept 14] on Hurricane Lee, noting that the closest point of approach is currently expected to be at midnight.
A Government spokesperson said, “As of the Bermuda Weather Service’s 12 p.m. update, a Tropical Storm warning remains in effect for our island.
“Hurricane Lee is currently a Category 1 storm located approximately 212 nautical miles southwest of Bermuda, moving north at 12 knots, with maximum sustained winds of 80 knots and gusts of up to 100 knots.”
Acting Minister of National Security Lt/Col David Burch, emphasises, “Your safety is our utmost concern. We strongly discourage motorists from being on the roads unless it is absolutely necessary.
“We would also like to address the concerns regarding the Causeway. Contrary to speculation, the Causeway remains open. The Government relies on the advice of experts, including structural engineers, before making any decision to close the Causeway.
“You may have noticed heavy equipment near the Causeway, which has fuelled rumours. This equipment has been prepositioned in the event a decision is taken to close the Causeway, but as of now, it remains open and operational.
“Once Lee has passed, it’s important that people stay off the roads to allow crews to carry out their assessments.
“I also wish to remind residents not to put their trash out tonight. Please wait for our announcement on Friday morning before doing so.”
The Government spokesperson said, “As Hurricane Lee approaches, we encourage everyone to stay vigilant and take the following precautions:
- Stay Indoors: Ensure your safety by staying indoors. High winds and seas pose significant risks.
- Check on neighbours: Look out for one another, especially the elderly and vulnerable. Extend a helping hand to your neighbours to ensure their safety as well.
- Listen to Authorities: Keep a close watch on updates from the Bermuda Weather Service and follow instructions from the Emergency Measures Organisation [EMO].
- Emergency Kit: Have an emergency kit prepared with essential supplies, including non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and a battery-operated radio.
- East end residents: The Lamb Foggo Urgent Care Centre will be operational from 8 p.m. tonight.
- Road closure: South Road, between John Smith’s Bay and Watch Hill Park, has been closed. Motorists may use detours via Harrington Hundreds Road, Devil’s Hole Hill and Knapton Hill.
“According to the Bermuda Weather Service, winds are expected to reach 40-50 knots [46-57 miles per hour] by this evening, with gusts of 65-70 knots [74-80 miles per hour]. The closest point of approach is currently expected to be 12 a.m. Friday.
“For additional information and updates, please visit the Bermuda Weather Service, the official weather authority for Bermuda, at http://weather.bm.”
You can see all our coverage of Hurricane Lee here, and our ongoing live updates on Hurricane Lee here.
