Tropical Storm Philippe A “Threat To Bermuda”
[Updated] Tropical Storm Philippe is a “threat to Bermuda”, the Bermuda Weather Service said, with its closest point of approach to Bermuda within 72 hours [3 days] forecast to be 96 nm to the SSE at 12pm on Friday [Oct 6] with the BWS noting that “this system may move closer to Bermuda after this time period depending upon its track.”
Graphic courtesy of the BWS:
The latest BWS forecast discussion stated, “The long range sees TS Philippe come into play as it moves by around 100nm to the E of BDA late Friday night into the early hours of Saturday morning. Winds are currently forecast to be strong to near tropical storm force (20-30kt) with gusts likely to tropical storm force [40kt] during Friday.
“Extensive shower activity is expected to set in with the chance of thunder too. Some of the QPF data is suggesting several inches of rain. Overnight into Saturday sees winds veer and ease for a time, while the extensive rainfall is expected to gradually abate during the morning as Philippe accelerates away towards the N. Rough to very rough seas and swells will gradually begin to abate on Saturday. A small craft warning is very likely through this period, while a thunderstorm advisory may also be required especially for Friday. Tropical watches/warnings may also need to be considered.”
Update Oct 3, 2.44pm: A Government spokesperson said, “The Ministry of National Security and the Bermuda Weather Service [BWS] are monitoring Tropical Storm Philippe, located northeast of the Caribbean’s Leeward Islands.
“Philippe is considered a threat to the island. The BWS anticipates that Philippe will gradually move toward the southeast of Bermuda by later this week.
“The storm is expected to strengthen into a category 1 hurricane as it nears our general vicinity this week, and residents must remain vigilant as storms are unpredictable and can change course.
“Despite previously avoiding significant impacts from three nearby storms this season, the Ministry urges the public to maintain awareness should a hurricane impact Bermuda.”
Minister of National Security Michael Weeks said, “Bermuda has been fortunate to avoid serious storms so far this hurricane season, but we must not become complacent.
“This is a timely reminder that we must remain prepared and ensure we have the necessary supplies and plans.
“We encourage all residents to stay updated with the latest information from the Bermuda Weather Service and be ready to take action if the storm evolves into a threat.”
The Government spokesperson said, “The Ministry strongly advises residents to monitor the Bermuda Weather Service’s website at weather.bm for the most up-to-date information on Philippe’s progress.”
