Power Outages Across The Island
[Updated] More than 2000 customers have lost power this evening [Jan 31] according to the BELCO outage map.
The outages occur as inclement weather affects the island, with the Bermuda Weather Service issuing a Severe Weather Watch and Gale Warning for this evening.
The latest forecast from the BWS states, “A complex dual centered low continues to deepen to our west. Gale force winds will gust storm force within periods of rain and showers, that could become heavy at times with possible thunderstorms gusting above fifty knots, warranting a severe weather watch. Strong winds intensify into a gale again on Sunday, with storm force gusts in and around showers. Strong gusty winds persist with blustery showers into mid-week.”
Screenshot from the BELCO outage map at approximately 8:20 p.m. this evening
Update Feb 1, 7.15am: As of this morning, the map shows 2800 customers out.
Update Feb 1, 9.14am: BELCO Managing Director Shelly Leman said “Bermuda Electric Light Company [BELCO] is providing an update on power restoration efforts following the low pressure system currently affecting the island. Gale force winds continue to impact Bermuda, and approximately 3,000 customers are currently without power. The areas most affected are Pembroke, Paget, Hamilton Parish and St. Georges.
“BELCO crews were out until 2:00 AM working to restore power, and teams were back in the field at first light this morning. The gale force winds associated with the low pressure system have caused impacts to overhead power lines and infrastructure across the island, with significant vegetation blown into power lines contributing to the large number of outages. BELCO will have teams out throughout the day, working as long as it is safe to do so, to restore power to all affected customers as quickly as possible.
“Customers are advised that BELCO’s 955 number is temporarily out of service. Our IT team is working with our telecoms partners to resolve the issue as soon as possible. In the event of an emergency, such as a pole fire, please contact Emergency Services immediately. Customers experiencing partial current should email info@belco.bm for assistance.
“BELCO encourages all customers to follow our social media channels or visit belco.bm for the latest updates on restoration progress.”
Update Feb 1, 1.55pm: A spokesperson said, “Bermuda Electric Light Company [BELCO] Managing Director Shelly Leman today provided an update on power restoration efforts following the low-pressure system currently affecting the island.”
Ms. Leman said: “As of noon on Sunday February 1st, BELCO had just under 1000 customers without power with the largest area currently in Sandys as a result of a burnt-up pole. BELCO crews remain active and responding to pockets of outages across the island. Crews will continue to operate as long as conditions remain safe to do so with further periods of higher winds expected later this afternoon.”
The spokesperson said, “Residents are asked to please ensure that any debris that could become airborne is secured safely at their homes or properties.”
Ms. Leman said: “Last night BELCO crews removed a trampoline that became airborne and entangled in a section of our overhead wires near Dolly’s Bay in St. David’s.”
The spokesperson said, “BELCO’s 955 number for reporting outages is now working and customers can call to report outages. Ms. Leman advised that residents should call BELCO and emergency services should they encounter a pole fire or sparking lines.”
Ms. Leman added: “I would like to thank our crews who were out working late last night until 2:00 AM under extremely challenging conditions. Our crews will continue working today until all customers have had their power restored. I urge everyone to stay safe and thank you for your patience as we work to restore power.”
The spokesperson said, “BELCO encourages all customers to follow the Company’s social media channels or visit belco.bm for the latest updates on restoration progress.”
