Video: Minister Updates On Storm Ernesto
[Updated] Minister of National Security Michael Weeks is holding a press conference this afternoon to provide an update on Hurricane Ernesto, we will have additional information later on and you can watch the live video below.
Update: The Minister said, “By Friday evening, we anticipate that strong to gale-force winds will begin to affect Bermuda, progressively increasing in intensity as Ernesto approaches. These winds are expected to escalate from storm to hurricane force by Saturday.
“I shall be reconvening the EMO executive tomorrow for our next meeting, during which time we will receive updated information and subsequently, make key decisions. These decisions will include the operation of the Causeway, the airport, and public transportation services, such as buses and ferries, as well as other Government services. We will also discuss the emergency shelter at CedarBridge Academy. Following this meeting, we will promptly inform the public of these decisions.”
Update 2.30pm: Minister Weeks’ full statement follows below:
Good afternoon, members of the media, Mr. Lyndon Raynor from the Disaster Risk Reduction and Mitigation team and Ms. Michelle Pitcher, Director of the Bermuda Weather Service, who is joining us via telephone.
Thank you all for being here to discuss Tropical Storm Ernesto and the preparations we must undertake.
This morning, I chaired a meeting of the Emergency Measures Organisation [EMO] executive to assess the potential impact of Tropical Storm Ernesto, which is currently tracking through the Atlantic near the Leeward Islands.
Although this meeting was an initial step in our response, it was critical, as it allowed us to gather the latest information and begin coordinating our preparations for this storm.
Let me be clear—while Bermuda has been fortunate in recent years to avoid the worst impacts of hurricanes, we have to take each storm seriously and prepare accordingly. As I have said before, it only takes one storm to cause significant damage and disrupt our way of life.
Ernesto is expected to strengthen into a hurricane by the time it makes its closest approach to our island this weekend. The centre of the storm is predicted to pass very near Bermuda, bringing hurricane-force winds, dangerous seas, and a high likelihood of the loss of electricity across the island.
We want to ensure that every resident is fully aware of the potential impacts. The rain that began yesterday is forecast
to continue into the weekend, which could result in low- level flooding in some areas across the island.
By Friday evening, we anticipate that strong to gale-force winds will begin to affect Bermuda, progressively increasing in intensity as Ernesto approaches. These winds are expected to escalate from storm to hurricane force by Saturday.
I cannot stress enough how important it is for every resident to use this time to prepare. We have seen in the past the devastating effects of complacency, where a lack of preparation has resulted in avoidable tragedies.
Do not be lulled into thinking that you can wait until the last minute. The window to prepare is closing rapidly, and any delay could put you, your loved ones, and your property at serious risk. This is not the time to underestimate the power of nature. Time is of the essence. Preparations must be completed as soon as possible.
Here are some key actions we should all be taking:
- Secure your property: Ensure that outdoor furniture and other moveable items are safely stored away to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.
- Boat owners: Please secure your vessels properly and make sure your boat insurance is up to date.
- Home Insurance: Double-check that your home insurance policies are up to date and that premiums are current to avoid financial hardship and disappointment later.
- Stock up on essentials: This is so important. Have enough food, water, and medicine to last a few days. Ensure you have rope, portable power banks, spare batteries, flashlights, and other hurricane supplies.
- Check on your neighbours: This is especially important for our elderly and vulnerable residents. We must make sure everyone is prepared and safe.
I shall be reconvening the EMO executive tomorrow for our next meeting, during which time we will receive updated information and subsequently, make key decisions. These decisions will include the operation of the Causeway, the airport, and public transportation services, such as buses and ferries, as well as other Government services. We will also discuss the emergency shelter at CedarBridge Academy. Following this meeting, we will promptly inform the public of these decisions.
The Emergency Radio Station at 100.1 FM will be operational to provide timely updates and critical information.
I also want to remind the public that while various weather sources are available online, the Bermuda Weather Service is the official source of weather information for the island.
The EMO makes decisions based on information provided by the Bermuda Weather Service. Please stay informed by visiting www.weather.bm for the latest updates and forecasts. Additionally, the BWS has an account on Facebook, which also provides updates. The public can also receive regular updates via the Government of Bermuda social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, X and Whatsapp.
I will now hand it over to Mrs. Michelle Pitcher, Director of the Bermuda Weather Service, who will provide you with the latest update on Tropical Storm Ernesto.
