The Ministry of National Security provided the following update regarding Hurricane Earl.

As of the 6.00 p.m. update Hurricane Earl was located around 122 nautical miles south of Bermuda, moving NNE at 14 knots.

It’s anticipated that Earl’s closest point of approach within the next 72 hours will be 12.00 am Friday morning, when it’s forecast to be some 86 nautical miles ESE of Bermuda.

As indicated earlier today by the Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks, the Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) continues to closely monitor the current weather conditions, which are expected to deteriorate tonight. (The full 6.00 p.m. update can be found here: Bermuda Weather Service) 

High Surf warnings signs by the Department of Parks remain posted along South shore beaches.

In the interest of public safety, Minister of National Security Michael Weeks has encouraged motorists, commuters and the public to be off the roads by 8:00 tonight. The Causeway will remain open.

We indicated previously that if the need arose, Harrington Sound Primary School would be designated as the emergency Government shelter during the storm. However, there is no need for the shelter at this time, and the Ministry is asking people not to attend that location.

Based on the current forecast, the public bus service will continue as usual. The Department of Transportation will deploy extra supervision on the roads and will closely monitor the updates in case there is a need to adjust the schedule should the direction of the storm change. 

The last bus will run at 8 this evening and the entire bus service will stand down at 9 p.m.

All ferry routes finished commuter service around 5.20 p.m. Unfortunately, the Pink Route ferry was suspended early at 3.45 p.m. due to a change in conditions. Marine & Ports apologises for the interruption.

Due to the expected high winds, residents are urged not to put their garbage out for collection until 7.30 Friday morning.

Should the weather conditions change, the public will be notified and advised accordingly regarding any changes in collections.

Minister Weeks stated this evening: “I encourage everyone to play their part to ensure that Hurricane Earl passes us by without major incident. 

“Bermuda is no stranger to hurricanes. However, let us not let our wealth of experience turn into complacency. Please take this storm seriously and be prepared by tonight.”

To ensure the Island is fully prepared for the arrival of Hurricane Earl, residents should:

·       Complete any last-minute repairs around the home.

·       Secure outdoor furniture.

·       Ensure family plans have been finalised, including any changes to phone numbers and other vital information.

·       Stock up on any medical prescriptions your family and pets require, and ensure you have at least two weeks' supply on hand.

·       Check your hurricane kit to ensure you have working flashlights, a portable radio with spare batteries and a stock of non-perishable food to last your family for seven days.

·       Ensure your house insurance policy is up to date. 

·       Check on your vulnerable neighbours, especially seniors, and ask them if they need help with their preparations.

Residents are encouraged to stay abreast of ‎updates regarding Hurricane Earl by visiting any of the following:

·        Online weather updates: www.weather.bm  

·       Televised weather updates: One Comm Ch. 4 and WOW Ch. 100.

·       The Government's Emergency Broadcast station is on 100.1 FM. Residents may telephone 247-1638 for more information

·       Government Facebook - @BermudaGovernment

·       Facebook.com/bermudagovernment

·       Government Twitter: @BdaGovernment Twitter.com/bdagovernment

·       Government Instagram: @BermudaGovernment Instagram.com/bermudagovernment

·       Government WhatsApp: 441-504-6045 Chat on WhatsApp with Government of Bermuda: https://wa.me/14415046045

·       Government Youtube: @CITVBermuda youtube.com/user/citvbermuda

Residents should call the following numbers during an emergency:

·       911- For Police, medical or Fire services

·       211- The Police number for non-emergencies

·       955- To report a power outage our downed electricity pole to BELCO