BELCO Monitoring Tropical Storm Ernesto
[Updated] BELCO is monitoring the development of Tropical Storm Ernesto and urged “everyone to prepare and ensure their properties and belongings are secure.”
In a post on X, previously known as Twitter, the company said, “As of 6AM today, BDA Weather Service shared that Tropical Storm Ernesto is a threat, forecasting the system to be approx 42nm to the SW of BDA on Aug 17, at 6AM.
“Our CMT is monitoring the development of TS Ernesto while continuing storm preparations. We encourage everyone to prepare & ensure their properties & belongings are secure & safe as well.
“If you’re a medical device dependent customer, speak to your doctor now about a plan in case of a power outage from a storm. Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee electricity for the duration of the storm & you may need to make alternative arrangements. Check out our Storm Smart Guide and safety tips here: https://belco.bm/storms/.”
Update 2.55pm: A spokesperson said, “Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited [BELCO] today advised residents that preparations are being made for the potential impacts of Hurricane Ernesto and encourages the public to prepare as well.
“BELCO’s Crisis Management Team has been convened to coordinate preparations ahead of possible impacts from Hurricane Ernesto and will continue to meet frequently until the storm threat has passed.
“Should Bermuda be impacted by Ernesto, and it result in power outages, restoration crews will start work as soon as it is declared safe to do so and will continue to work until every customer has had power restored.
“The public can get storm preparedness advice, safety tips and updates on any outages on BELCO’s website and social media pages, inclusive of Facebook, X [formerly Twitter], YouTube and Instagram.
“While the time for arranging a scheduled power outage with BELCO for tree trimming prior to Ernesto’s forecast arrival has passed, customers are reminded that the most important action residents can take to prepare is to ensure that trees on their property are clear of power lines. Ensuring that vegetation on private property remains 10 feet away from power lines is the sole responsibility of property owners. Property owners can call 295-5111 or email treetrimming@belco.bm three weeks in advance to schedule a power shutdown in order to trim safely.”
BELCO President Wayne Caines said, “BELCO is monitoring the development of Ernesto carefully and taking the appropriate action to be prepared should the storm impact Bermuda. I urge residents to prepare now and to also support each other however we can in preparation, during the storm and in recovery efforts.
“I encourage all residents and businesses in Bermuda to review their own hurricane safety plans as well as tips and advice on the BELCO website and social media channels to keep their family and property safe should we be impacted by this storm later this week.”
