Ministry Urges People To Prepare For Hurricanes
The Ministry of National Security is urging residents to complete their hurricane preparations early as the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins.
A spokesperson said, “The season officially began on 1 June, and the Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP, who chairs Bermuda’s Emergency Measures Organisation [EMO], said residents should use this month to review their household plans, check their supplies, and make sure they are ready before any storm threatens the Island.”
Minister Weeks stated: “A quieter forecast does not mean a safe season for Bermuda. It only takes one storm to cause serious disruption to this Island, and my instruction to every resident is clear: do not wait. The time to prepare is right now, while shelves are stocked, conditions are calm, and you have the space to think clearly.”
The spokesperson said, “The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [NOAA] has forecast a below-normal Atlantic hurricane season this year, with El Niño conditions expected to limit overall storm activity.
“However, the Ministry stressed that Bermuda’s position in the Atlantic means the Island must remain prepared, as one well-placed storm can still cause serious damage and disruption.
“Residents are encouraged to secure their homes, check shutters and windows, trim trees near their property, review their insurance coverage, and prepare or update their household hurricane plan.
“Families should also agree on where they will shelter, how they will communicate if power or phone service is disrupted, and who may need extra help before or after a storm.
“The Ministry is also encouraging residents to check on elderly relatives, neighbours who live alone, and anyone who may need support with preparations.”
Minister Weeks added: “As Chair of the EMO, I want residents to understand how decisions are made when Bermuda is threatened. We act on the advice of the Bermuda Weather Service — that is the authoritative source of weather information for this Island.
“When we issue a watch or warning, it is based on the best available science. Please follow those communications and not rumour or social media speculation.”
The spokesperson said, “When a storm approaches Bermuda, the Bermuda Weather Service monitors the system and briefs the EMO. If a watch is issued, residents should complete their final preparations.
“If a warning is issued, storm conditions are expected within 36 hours, and residents are encouraged to follow official guidance, including any information on shelters and public safety measures.
“Residents are encouraged to visit www.gov.bm/are-you-ready-hurricane-season now to build their household plan and check their supply list.
“Peak hurricane season usually runs from mid-August through October, but storms can form earlier. The Ministry is therefore urging residents to treat June as a preparation month and to act now while conditions are calm.”
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