BWS: Tropical Storm Gabrielle Is ‘Potential Threat’
Tropical Storm Gabrielle is a “potential threat to Bermuda”, the Bermuda Weather Service said, with its nearest forecasted point to Bermuda predicted to be 369 nm to the south-east at 6am on Sunday, with the BWS noting that “this forecast is subject to change with the next update.”
Graphic courtesy of the BWS:
The latest forecast from the U.S. National Hurricane Center said, “At 500 AM AST [0900 UTC], the center of Tropical Storm Gabrielle was located near latitude 20.0 North, longitude 50.3 West. Gabrielle is moving toward the west-northwest near 15 mph [24 km/h]. A west-northwest or northwest motion is expected during the next few days.
Maximum sustained winds remain near 50 mph [85 km/h] with higher gusts. Little change in strength is forecast during the next 48 hours, but some gradual intensification is forecast late in the weekend. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 240 miles [390 km] from the center.
Graphic courtesy of the NHC:
A BELCO spokesperson said, “BELCO today advised residents that it is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Gabrielle’s development.
“Tropical Storm Gabrielle is currently traveling west-northwesterly across the Atlantic, however the forecast track has changed several times over the last 48 hours.
“BELCO’s Crisis Management Team [CMT] has met to review all preparation protocols and in the event that the storm does impact the island, BELCO stands ready to respond.
“BELCO’s Hurricane Plan has been enacted to coordinate preparations ahead of any potential impacts from Tropical Storm Gabrielle. Through this process, critical spares are strategically placed in the western and eastern ends of the island and crew assignments are developed to ensure rapid response.
“Should Bermuda be impacted by Gabrielle, and it results 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 updates on any storm-related outages on BELCO’s website and social media pages, inclusive of Facebook, X and Instagram.
“While the time for arranging a scheduled power outage with BELCO for tree trimming prior to any potential impacts from Gabriellehas 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 tropical storm Gabrielle carefully and taking the appropriate action to be prepared should the storm impact Bermuda. We have had several threats from storms this season but thankfully we have been spared direct impacts. I urge residents to not let their guard down and prepare now for potential storm conditions. 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 next week.”
